If you are considering a prenuptial agreement, one of the best things you can do is start the conversation early.

Many couples wait until shortly before their wedding to think about a prenup. By then, there may already be travel plans, invitations, family commitments, and countless other wedding details to manage.

A prenuptial agreement deserves more time than that.

A prenup can address financial and property matters between two people who are planning to marry. It may be useful for couples who own property, have businesses, have children from previous relationships, have significant savings, or simply want to establish clear financial expectations before marriage.

Starting early gives both people time to understand what the agreement says and consider whether changes are needed.

It also allows couples to have an honest conversation about finances before they are married.

If you already have a living trust or other estate planning documents, those should be considered as well. A prenup does not replace a living trust, and an existing estate plan may need to be reviewed as part of the process.

A prenuptial agreement does not mean that a couple expects their marriage to fail. For many people, it is simply a way to make important financial decisions clearly and deliberately.

If you are considering a prenup, starting sooner gives you more time to make those decisions without unnecessary pressure.

For more information, visit our prenuptial agreement page.

FAQs

When should I start a prenuptial agreement?

It is best to start the process well before the wedding so both people have adequate time to review the agreement and obtain appropriate legal advice.

Are prenups only for wealthy couples?

No. Couples may consider a prenup because of property, businesses, children from previous relationships, inheritances, debts, or other financial concerns.

Should my estate plan be reviewed when I create a prenup?

If you already have a living trust or other estate planning documents, reviewing them at the same time can help make sure the documents work together.