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Making decisions about retirement assets in divorce

On Behalf of | Oct 19, 2021 | Divorce |

Individuals in Mississippi and elsewhere who are going through the end of a marriage may face a variety of difficult decisions when seeking to protect their futures. However, knowing every topic to address during a potentially emotional time could prove a challenging feat. Those who have put forth time and effort into building up retirement funds might find it helpful to know how best to approach such assets during a divorce and to seek insight on any potential tax repercussions involved. 

Retirement assets and taxes 

It is no secret that retirement assets could play a significant role during divorce negotiations. When it comes to assets such as a 401(k), the parties involved could benefit from knowing all their available options, which may include dividing the assets within or allowing one party to retain possession thereof in exchange for relinquishing ownership of other assets. Addressing the possible tax ramifications of each option and issues such as the need for a Qualified Domestic Relations Order to divide the assets within could also be integral to maxing informed decisions. 

Annuities and IRA accounts are two more types of retirement assets that could influence the outcome of a divorce. While contributions to an IRA made during a marriage will be deemed marital property, there may be scenarios in which inherited IRAs or accounts that existed before a marriage may still retain their separate identity. When it comes to annuities, addressing any potential tax repercussions involved with dividing such assets and the potential of eligibility for exceptions could also prove imperative. 

Making informed decisions 

Dealing with retirement assets during a divorce can be a stressful and harrowing process. When facing similar concerns, a person in Mississippi could choose to speak with an attorney for insight in covering every available option and in preparing a strategy with which to safeguard his or her future. Such advice could play a vital role in helping place a person in a better position with which to seek the best outcome achievable during divorce proceedings and prepare to enter the next stage of life with peace of mind. 

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