Login

Ask The Experts

 

 

Topic Originator Date Posted
Newly married...legal and financial responsibilities
By: Anonymous
Male, 
Age: 43
8/11/2012 9:53:23 AM

I just got married. How do I get my wife to get a will and talk about some of these legal and financial responsibilities that we now have as a married couple?

 

Reply Posted By: Gail Peitzmeier, Ed.D, RD, LD - Female, Des Moines, IA, 50309

Date Posted: 10/26/2012 11:52:56 AM

Expert Reply


By: Gail Peitzmeier, Ed.D, RD, LD

Expert

Marriage is a significant life transition that can have many impacts. Learning that you and your spouse have different views and feelings about finances is very common for new couples. If you anticipate that the subject will be difficult to talk about for one or both of you – a little planning can go a long way toward setting you up for success: Schedule time when you are both relaxed and can focus on the discussion without distractions or other stressors; Take time to identify reasonable and tangible goals as outcomes for the discussion; and remember that subjects such as money are often emotionally-charged - it is normal that one or both of you may experience anxiety about the discussion.

The EFR Better Living benefit includes consultations with attorneys and financial advisors that can help you begin addressing the legal and financial implications of planning for your future. There are also many helpful articles and resources on the EFR Better Living website with advice and tips for coping with both the practical and emotional implications of this transition.