The decision to end a marriage is often a difficult one to make. Many people in Missouri who have been together for years often take into consideration how the decision to do so will affect their future financial plans. Despite this, those who decide to divorce come to the conclusion that doing so is in their best interests.
Once the decision is made, the marital property of the couple must be divided. This includes any assets related to retirement, including 401(k) plans and pensions funds. While it is relatively easy to determine the value of a 401(k), determining the value of a pension plan may be more difficult and includes the estimated monthly payout. Some people hire a financial professional to help them accurately value such assets.
After the value is determined, decisions regarding how the pension will be divided must be made. In some situations, a person may decide that it is in his or her best interest to take a higher share of a different asset, as pension plans are designed for future payouts and can be difficult to divide. Another option is to agree to receive a percentage of the monthly payments once it begins to payout.
When couples choose to marry, they do so with the intention of spending the rest of their lives together. However, people change over the course of years and in response to significant life events, often resulting in changes that leave them no longer compatible. Fortunately, there are experienced professionals who can help those in Missouri choosing to divorce seek a more fulfilling stage of their lives.