Many engaged couples are uncomfortable talking about prenuptial agreements. It may like they’re dooming the marriage before it’s begun. However, prenups go beyond deciding who gets what in a divorce.
In the United States, approximately 40% of families are blended, meaning that one or both partners have children from a previous relationship. Blended families can have some unique challenges. Different parenting styles, expectations of household chores and long-term goals such as paying for college can be areas of conflict if not addressed early on. A prenup can lay out expectations so everyone is on the same page from the beginning.
How prenups can help blended families
If there are children from a previous relationship, a prenup can protect their inheritance and help ensure their future financial security. If anything were to happen to one spouse, there are expectations that the surviving spouse would provide for their stepchildren. However, with a prenup, everyone can have peace of mind and avoid conflicts later.
When children know their interests are protected, they are more likely to feel comfortable and be a part of the new family dynamic. Prenups also protect valuable family heirlooms by directing them to be passed on to the biological children.
While discussing a prenup may feel uncomfortable, it is an excellent way to foster open and honest communication. By being able to discuss sensitive topics, couples can strengthen their bond and ability to problem-solve as a team. A prenup can determine what will happen if one spouse sells their house and moves in with the other. Will the homeowner retain sole ownership or add the other spouse to the deed?
One issue that causes resentment in blended families is the concept of unfairness. Without a clear agreement in place, issues such as debt or responsibilities can go unaddressed and lead to disputes among children and parents.
Prenuptial agreements don’t doom a marriage. They can actually help strengthen it. When everyone feels heard and secure in a blended family, happiness is likely to follow.