When you think of infidelity, you probably imagine your spouse romantically involved with someone else behind your back. However, not all infidelity is about love or sex. In fact, a growing number of spouses are unfaithful to their partners in a different way. Maybe you are guilty of it too.
Financial infidelity happens when spouses keep their money habits secret from each other. This could be something as simple as a wife hiding a newly purchased pair of shoes or a husband hiding the receipt from a lunch splurge. Financial infidelity becomes a serious issue when it interferes with the trust between two spouses.
Recognizing financial infidelity
Marriage counselors say the motives behind money deceit make a big difference in the future of the marriage. For example, one spouse who lies about the amount of debt he or she has because of embarrassment is different from a spouse who funnels income to a secret account simply to prevent you from getting your hands on it.
Some common signs that your spouse may be hiding the truth about money include:
- Your spouse deflects conversations about family finances.
- Account statements and financial papers disappear.
- Your spouse suddenly removes you from a joint account.
- Bills that once came to your home now go to your spouse’s office.
- Your spouse is suddenly too generous or complains too much about how bad business has been.
Sometimes the infidelity revolves solely around the finances, but other times spouses divert money to fund sexual infidelity as well, for example to pay for gifts or dates with a secret romantic interest.
Work it out or cash it in
Financial advisors say that not every couple who experiences financial infidelity ends up in divorce court. In fact, the discovery or revelation of money deceit in your marriage may lead to a frank discussion that is long overdue. In many cases, Colorado couples find that clearing the air allows them to begin setting financial goals together and may actually strengthen their marriages.
However, if your situation is not so hopeful, the assistance of a family law attorney may be important. Having discovered financial infidelity in your spouse increases the likelihood that your spouse has hidden or dissipated marital assets. You want to be sure to get the maximum settlement you deserve in your divorce.
The right attorney will have the resources to track down hidden assets and uncover deceit your spouse may have used to divert assets from you. Having strong legal advice will ensure no one will take advantage of you and deprive you of the hope for a bright and secure future.