Can Divorce Hurt Your Credit Rating?

 Posted on July 11, 2016 in Main

Divorce is a mentally, emotionally, and often financially challenging process that can impact almost every aspect of your life. Furthermore, there are several pitfalls and missteps that can have a long-term effect on your life. But can divorce hurt your credit rating? And, if so, how?

Filing for Divorce Does Not Equal Credit Doom

The act of filing for divorce itself does not impact your credit. Instead, it is the actions or inactions following divorce that can negatively affect your credit score. For example, if you are ordered to pay child support during the divorce decree but fail to make your payments, a judgement may be entered against you. Ultimately, this judgement will have a negative impact on your credit rating.

Dividing Debts During Divorce

Another potential influence on your credit is the way that debts are divided during divorce. If not done appropriately, you may end up with more debt than you can handle in divorce, which can cause you to fall behind on your payments. This is why it is critical that you seek guided assistance from an attorney with the division of your debts and assets during divorce. Able to help you understand if and why a debt may or may not be your responsibility, an attorney can help you negotiate a debt and asset settlement or, if an amicable solution cannot be reached, they can litigate on your behalf in court.

Protecting Your Credit from an Ex's Debt

Although debt division can help determine who is responsible for a debt, it may not necessarily protect you from creditor action if your spouse falls behind, fails to make payments on time, or passes away. This is particularly problematic for debts that you cannot easily be removed from, such as a mortgage. Your attorney can assist you in devising a strategy that can help protect your credit from your ex's debts during and after your divorce.

At Mirabella, Kincaid, Frederick & Mirabella, LLC, we understand the importance of protecting your credit today, and in the future. Dedicated to your best interest, our DuPage County divorce lawyers guide you through the divorce process, from start to finish, and ensure your rights are protected. We are skilled in handling even the most complex divorces and provide compassionate, comprehensive services to clients in Wheaton, IL and throughout DuPage County. To schedule a confidential consultation, call our offices at 630-665-7300 today.

Sources:

http://www.foxbusiness.com/features/2016/07/05/does-getting-divorce-hurt-your-credit.html