A wedding prenup is an agreement between two people about to get married. Essentially, it’s a legal document that outlines how they will handle their assets, debts, and other financial responsibilities, particularly in the event of major life changes.

Contrary to what many might assume, a prenup can actually pave the way for honest talks between two people in a committed partnership. Besides giving room for open discussions about their current financial situation, it lets them set out clear plans for their future together.

If you’re wondering why you should consider a wedding prenup, or maybe you’re not sure if it’s right for you, Neptune can help. Our prenup concierge services provide expert advice and connect you with trusted family lawyers who are well-versed in prenuptial agreements. Still unsure? 

Feel free to ask your prenup questions here.

Who Needs a Wedding Prenup?

Anyone who’s about to get married should consider a prenup. While it might be especially important for people with complex financial situations or lots of assets like businesses or inheritance, just about anyone can benefit from one.

Think of a prenuptial agreement as a tool that you and your partner can use to align your visions for the future. Even if you have different spending habits or long-term financial goals, for example, a prenup gives you a framework to discuss these differences openly and include them in your agreement. This allows you both to understand each other’s priorities and get on the same page.

Besides, if you’re getting married with substantial debts―think credit card balances or student loans―a prenup can help you both tackle these obligations together as a team. This could mean creating a joint plan for paying off debts efficiently. It may also mean defining what each of you is responsible for so there is no confusion down the line.

No matter your current situation, a wedding prenup can help you and your partner create a solid plan for your future.

However, if you’re already married without a prenuptial agreement, it’s not too late to create a valid agreement as an official couple. All you need is a postnuptial agreement (postnup) that spells out your plans, particularly as it relates to your assets, debts, and financial goals. 

Have a chat with Neptune to get matched with a vetted family law attorney who specializes in postnuptial agreements. They can help you explore postnup options that work for you and your better half.

Why Should You Get a Wedding Prenup?

Here’s an important fact many couples don’t realize: without a prenup, you’re subject to your state’s default marital laws. Every state has its own community property or equitable distribution rules that serve as a default prenup for couples that don’t create their own agreement.

When there are significant life changes that affect your relationship (for example, one partner passing away), the laws in your state regarding the handling of assets and debts will apply. This is why it’s important to find out what your state laws say about these matters before you tie the knot. And if you don’t agree with them, you and your partner can create a prenuptial agreement with terms that suit you both.

Crafting your own prenup with the help of an experienced family law attorney gives you even more advantages. Here are some other compelling reasons to consider one:

1. Build a Stronger Union

Although it might feel awkward at first, discussing a prenup with your partner can help build a stronger union that’ll stand the test of time.

The prenup process actually encourages couples to plan their lives together, not just prepare for who gets what if things don’t work out. These conversations allow you both to be open and honest with each other about important and, sometimes, sensitive issues. For example, who will take time off work to stay home with the children, or what age you plan to retire, and what happens afterward.

These kinds of talks are what build trust and mutual respect in relationships, and a prenup simply formalizes them into a legal agreement that benefits you both.

2. Manage Inheritance

If you have children from previous relationships, your wedding prenup can outline how their inheritance will be managed, especially in the event of death. This way, there are no surprises or confusion in the future when major life changes occur.

3. Sort Out Premarital Assets

With a prenup, you both can clearly define which assets remain individual and which ones will be shared. This provides you with clarity and peace of mind and helps ensure transparency and mutual understanding. 

How to Get a Wedding Prenup

First, discuss the idea of a prenup with your partner. It’s usually a good idea to have these conversations around 6 months (or more) before the wedding. This way, you both have enough time to talk things through and work out the details.

Remember to be open and honest. And don’t forget to approach the conversation with empathy and lots of understanding. Some people might view a prenup as a sign of distrust or uncertainty about their relationship, at least initially. However, with patience, you can get your partner to see things differently.

Once you’re both ready, consult individual lawyers who specialize in family law to draft and negotiate the terms of your agreement. Keep in mind that the exact cost of prenups can vary widely, depending on how complex the agreement is or where you live. A good rule of thumb is to find lawyers who offer flat fees and transparent pricing rather than hourly rates or retainers, as this gives you a clearer picture of what to expect when it comes to cost.

Create a Solid Wedding Prenup With Neptune

Discussing prenups with your partner, even before consulting any lawyers, is an important part of the process, and this is one of our core beliefs at Neptune. If you have had this talk with your significant other already or are still considering it, taking a few moments to complete this quiz can help you figure out your next steps. 

Whenever you’re ready to take things further, we can connect you with trusted family attorneys with lots of experience in prenuptial agreements. With their expertise, you can create an agreement that works well for you and your spouse.