How Long Before a Wedding Should a Prenup Be Signed?

Prenuptial agreements, commonly called prenups, are becoming increasingly popular among couples who want financial clarity and peace of mind as they enter a marriage. But one common question on most couples’ minds is: How long before a wedding should a prenup be signed?

Technically, you can sign a prenup any time before your wedding day. But timing it right matters because every state has its own legal rules. Some require waiting periods, while others look closely at how much review time each partner had. A rushed prenup can raise questions about fairness and even affect its enforceability in court.

However, it can get tough to keep track of these state-specific laws. Neptune can help here. The financial concierge connects you with local, experienced family lawyers who know your state laws and will guide you based on those specifics.

Here’s what you need to know to make sure your prenup is signed at the right time and with confidence.

Why Timing Matters for Prenups

Prenups are legally binding contracts, and courts look closely at how and when they’re signed. Rushed timelines can create:

• Pressure on one partner: Last-minute signing may be perceived as coercion.
• Limited review time: Both partners and their attorneys need time to review and negotiate terms.
• Challenges to enforceability: Some states have mandatory waiting periods or fairness standards that can make a rushed prenup vulnerable.

State Laws: Different States, Different Timelines

Your state of residence can directly affect your prenup timeline. Here are a few examples of how:

• California: Requires a seven-day waiting period between the time one party receives the final draft and when they sign it. This ensures each partner has at least a week to review the terms, ideally with independent counsel.
• New York: Doesn’t have a specific waiting period, but the courts focus on whether the agreement was signed voluntarily and with full financial disclosure. Signing right before the wedding could still be challenged if one party claims coercion.
• New Jersey: Like New York, there is no specific waiting period, but it is advised to start the process six months to a year prior to the wedding date. Neptune can help to expedite the process should your wedding be sooner than that.

The Ideal Timeline: When Do You Sign a Prenup?

Most family law attorneys recommend finalizing your prenup at least 30 days before your wedding. This buffer:

• Shows the agreement was entered into voluntarily, without last-minute pressure.
• Provides ample time for financial disclosures and attorney review.
• Satisfies specific state waiting period requirements if they exist.

What If You’re Already Close to the Wedding?

Life happens, and sometimes prenup conversations don’t happen until late in the wedding planning process. If you’re already within 30 days, you still have options.

• Act quickly but thoughtfully: Don’t rush through signing just to “get it done.” If you are less than a month away from your wedding date, Neptune lawyers offer expedited prenup services.
• Prioritize disclosure: Make sure both parties have full access to each other’s financial information.
• Involve attorneys early: Having independent legal counsel for each partner strengthens the enforceability of the agreement.

If timing feels too tight, you can also consider signing a postnuptial agreement after the wedding.

How Long Does the Prenup Process Take?

Depending on financial complexity and alignment between partners, the process usually takes two to six weeks. The steps broadly include:

1. Initial conversation: Agreeing to have a prenup (a sensitive but essential step).
2. Financial disclosures: Sharing details of assets, debts, and income.
3. Drafting the agreement: A lawyer prepares the initial draft.
4. Review and revisions: Each partner reviews documents with their own attorney and suggests changes.
5. Final signing: After both partners agree on the terms and the required waiting period (if applicable), the agreement is signed and notarized.

Starting early helps keep the prenup process collaborative rather than rushed.

Meet Neptune: Focus on Clarity, Not Just Deadlines

Your wedding is a milestone, but your marriage is the bigger journey. Signing your prenup early helps bring clarity and trust in your relationship. 

The time it takes to complete a prenup depends on the complexity of your finances and how aligned you and your partner are on terms. On average, the process can take a few weeks to a few months.

With Neptune, that timeline becomes far more manageable. We connect you with vetted attorneys who walk you through each step, including state-specific timelines. Our attorneys also ensure all documentation is accurate and enforceable. 

With thoughtful conversations and expert guidance, your prenup can become a foundation for financial harmony rather than a source of last-minute tension.

Ready to kickstart your prenup journey? Start the conversation with Neptune today.