How To Create A Divorce Expense Worksheet

By Diane Sanders


Splitting assets is a common practice associated with divorce procedures. While separation is the best solutions to issues affecting marriage, individuals are faced with financial problems during and after divorce. Legal experts need a well structured financial report to determine who needs financial assistance and how to separate assets. Below is a list of things every individual needs to know about creating divorce expense worksheet.

Expense worksheets can be handwritten or designed with computer applications. Most spouses choose to prepare budgets with the help of computer applications referred to as spreadsheets. A spreadsheet is designed with columns which help distinguish between income and expenditure for both pre-divorce and post-divorce. Spouses are expected to prepare accurate spreadsheets to help determine the cost of alimony, child support, and separation of assets.

A spreadsheet can be completed at different time frames during court proceedings. The ability to prepare the document depends on the financial status of an individual or change of financial circumstances. Most spouses utilize computer applications to prepare a budget. Applications are easy to use and guarantee accurate calculations. Spreadsheet entries are presented as numbers, meaning your calculations are translated to dollars. Spreadsheets contain formulas which ease calculation procedures.

Preparing a financial report is not easy especially for anyone going through a separation. However, one must overcome emotional ties when creating worksheets. Pay attention to important matters like your source of income. The court requires details on how you earn finances. It is difficult to keep track of your income sources if you have been employed many times. Use your income tax report to identify income sources you have relied on for at least three years.

Write down individual tax returns on the spreadsheet. It is natural for spouses to file tax returns jointly. Keep in mind, tax returns will be filed separately after marriage annulment. If you are unemployed, avoid listing sources of income until you can confirm steady flow of income. If you are already separated and receive financial support in form of alimony or child support from your spouse, make sure to list the amount.

Your expenditure history is an important factor to consider before submitting a financial report to the court. Write down the amount of cash you spend on various things such as insurance, utility bills, and mortgage. Other expenses such as gym membership, entertainment or vacations should be listed. Remember, you can choose to forego extra expenses for some time to reduce your expenditure.

Add all your expenses including the ones you have decided to cut off. Find out how much you spend on permanent expenses only. This means you add all your permanent expenses then calculate extra expenses to get the difference. If you spend more than your earnings, consider cutting off items that you do not need.

Maintaining a budget is one of the most challenging parts when filing divorce. Make an effort to stick to a budget to improve your financial status. Keep in mind, your current situation should not define your future financial status. Professionals recommend you hire a lawyer to help you with the expense calculations if you feel the whole process is complicated.




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