Real Answers for Life’s Money Challenges
I will have been married for 30 years in July 2022.
My wife and I havent been intimate in over 10 years.
Were both 58 years of age.
I havent been in love with her for almost half our marriage.
Ive told her for the last 10 to 12 years that I want a divorce.
Ive been disabled since close to the end of 2016.
My disability is more in my severe depression and my migraine headaches.
Stress usually causes my migraine headaches.
When my dad died, my siblings and I received an inheritance of about $100,000.
My inheritance money paid off our house.
Im afraid if I proceed with divorce that Im going to be homeless.
My wife and I do not have any more children living with us.
I honestly cannot stand to be around her anymore.
When she speaks to me, her voice drives me nuts.
I just dont want her to say anything to me.
Penny, I dont know if Im asking you for advice or really what Im doing.
I cry almost every day because Im so sad and alone.
I honestly dont know what to do with myself?
I dont want to be homeless, but I dont want to be sad and alone anymore.
Can you give me advice on what I need to do, hey?
I dont think the reality is so black and white.
Divorce attorneys dont work cheap, but many offer a free consultation.
Use Google to find an attorney in your area who wont charge you for the initial meeting.
You could also search for a legal aid society near you to see if youd qualify for reduced-fee services.
Give yourself a one-week deadline to make an appointment.
An attorney isnt going to be able to answer every question you have during an initial consultation.
But youll at least walk away with some sense of how your property could be divided in a divorce.
Since you have a paid-off home, youd likely walk away with some home equity.
That may require significant downsizing on your part, but I dont think youd be left homeless.
Are you struggling to cope with financial stress?
First, take a deep breath.
Then, take a look at our roundup ofresources to help you manage your stress and your money.
I cant imagine that your wife is happy in this marriage either.
Maybe shes hoping youll be the one to pull the plug.
This could be a good option for you and your wife since you dont have minor children.
Its essential that you take care of your mental health as well.
(Note that youll pay a one-time $59 membership fee.)
Dont attempt to figure out all the financial pieces to this decision right away.
Robin Hartill is a certified financial planner and a senior writer at The Penny Hoarder.
Send your tricky money questions to[email protected].
