Prepare a realistic monthly budget
Bring a current list of housing, utilities, insurance, transportation, food, childcare, debt payments, and other recurring expenses. A budget should reflect actual household life rather than an idealized future estimate.
Gather income history
Recent pay records, tax returns, bonuses, commissions, self-employment information, and evidence of major employment changes can help frame the financial discussion.
Explain changes in earning capacity
Career breaks, caregiving responsibilities, disability, layoffs, retraining, or a major promotion may all be relevant context. Write down the dates and practical impact rather than relying on memory during the meeting.
Ask about temporary and longer-term issues separately
The needs during the divorce process may not be identical to the issues considered later. Ask which questions are immediate and which are part of long-term settlement or court planning.
Avoid treating one number as guaranteed
Support questions can be highly dependent on facts and judicial discretion. Use estimates as planning tools, not promises.