Wedding registries have long been a familiar tradition, but in recent years, some people have embraced the idea of establishing divorce registries as well.
Similar to a wedding registry, it allows friends and family to give gifts that can help someone establish a new household after their marriage ends.
Is opening a divorce registry a good idea?
If you and your spouse are going your separate ways, your personal circumstances and comfort level will likely influence your decision to open a registry or not. Divorce often leaves one or both spouses needing to replace everyday household items. Furniture, cookware, linens and small appliances that were once shared may now need to be purchased separately. A registry can provide loved ones with practical ways to offer support during this major life transition.
At the same time, not everyone is comfortable with the idea. Some people prefer to keep their divorce private or worry that a registry may give the impression they are asking for gifts. Family dynamics can also be complicated, particularly if children are involved or the divorce remains contentious. Before creating a registry, consider how it may be perceived by relatives, friends and your former spouse. While their opinions matter less than yours, their feelings may impact how you ultimately feel about your decision to open one or not.
You’ll also want to keep in mind that it is generally better to wait until the legal process is complete before focusing on furnishing a new home. Otherwise, what you purchase or receive may be considered marital property to a degree.
Whether you create a registry or not, thoughtful planning, sound financial decisions and reliable legal guidance will do good things when it comes to positioning you for long-term success. When it comes to this particular decision, it’s hard to go wrong either way.