Donna Cates, CDFA

Divorcing when you have children adds a layer of complexity to an already challenging process. Beyond emotional considerations, financial decisions made during and after divorce can have long-lasting impacts on your children’s well-being and your financial future. At Money Matters Wealth Solutions, Donna Cates focuses on helping parents like you make informed, strategic 

decisions that support your goals and protect your family.

Key Financial Considerations for Divorcing Parents

1. Child Support and Expenses Understanding how child support is calculated and what it covers is critical. But don’t stop there—consider extracurricular activities, medical expenses, and future education costs. These often-overlooked items can significantly impact your post-divorce budget.

2. Housing Decisions Deciding whether to keep the marital home can be an emotional choice, but it must also be a financially sound one. I help parents evaluate whether staying in the home aligns with their long-term financial goals and assess the impact of mortgage payments, taxes, and maintenance costs.

3. College Savings Plans Divorce doesn’t end your shared responsibility to prepare for your children’s future. Together, we can explore options like dividing 529 plans, setting up new accounts, or including college expenses in your divorce agreement.

4. Health and Life Insurance Securing adequate health insurance for your children and revisiting life insurance policies to protect their financial future is essential. I can guide you in ensuring these critical safeguards are in place.

5. Co-Parenting and Financial Coordination Open communication about shared financial responsibilities can reduce stress. I provide tools and strategies for co-parents to manage financial obligations smoothly and collaboratively.

Post-Divorce Planning: Building a New Foundation

Once your divorce is finalized, it’s time to redefine your financial goals. This includes creating a sustainable budget, rebuilding your savings, and adjusting investment strategies. I offer ongoing support to help you stay on track and adapt to life’s changes.

How Donna Cates Can Help You Navigate This Process

At Money Matters Wealth Solutions, I understand the unique financial challenges divorcing parents face. As a Certified Divorce Financial Analyst® (CDFA®) and founder of Money Matters Wealth Solutions and Navigating Divorce, I’ve worked with hundreds of clients to achieve better financial outcomes during and after divorce.

Here’s how Donna Cates can support you:

• Comprehensive Divorce Planning: From evaluating settlement offers to projecting the long-term impact of financial decisions, I help ensure you’re informed every step of the way.

• Workshops and Resources: Join my Second Saturday Divorce Workshop, where you’ll gain practical insights on navigating divorce with confidence.

• One-on-One Guidance: Whether you’re negotiating child support, dividing assets, or planning for your future, I offer tailored strategies to suit your needs.

You’re Not Alone on This Journey

Divorce is a significant transition, but it’s also an opportunity to create a new beginning for you and your children. With the right financial strategies, you can lay the groundwork for a secure and fulfilling future.

Ready to take the next step? Visit Money Matters Wealth Solutions or my Divorce Diva’s Alabama Facebook page (www.facebook.com/DivorceDivasAlabama/) to learn more about my workshops, resources, and how I can support you through this process.

Together, we can turn your divorce into a steppingstone for a brighter financial future. [email protected] 

Contact and Connect (908) 955-0077 ext 307

moneymatterswealth.com Donna S. Cates