Who Should Consider a Prenup?
/A prenup isn’t about expecting divorce. It’s about creating clarity, reducing risk, and making sure your values—not just default law—guide your financial future. If any of the following sound familiar, it’s worth having the conversation.
You or your partner has (or expects):
1. Startup equity or stock compensation
You’re a founder, early employee, or someone with RSUs, options, or carry that vests over time.
Example: One partner joins a pre-IPO company. The other has a stable public-sector job. What happens if the equity explodes in value?
2. Family money or inheritances
You’ve received or expect gifts, a trust, or help with a down payment from family.
Example: Your parents gave you $400k for a house. Do they expect it back if you divorce?
3. Major income differences or student debt
One of you earns much more, or is bringing significant debt into the marriage.
Example: You’re a teacher with no loans. Your partner has $250k in student loans and is about to start a BigLaw job.
4. Children from a prior relationship
You want to make sure your financial plans are aligned with long-term care or inheritance for your kids.
Example: You want your separate property to pass to your children, not your new spouse.
5. A business or real estate you want to protect
You own a business, a rental property, or any long-term asset you’ve worked to build.
Example: You own a duplex and collect rent. You want clarity about income and appreciation going forward.
6. Different views on financial roles
You expect one person to stay home with kids, take career risks, or move for the other’s job.
Example: You’re moving across the country to support your partner’s career. Will you be compensated if you leave your job?
7. A desire to talk through expectations clearly
You both want to define your own version of fairness—before life gets more complicated.
Example: You agree now that equity earned at a job should stay separate—but want to talk through refresh grants or cashing out during the marriage.