If I Open a Separate Bank Account While Preparing for Divorce, Can It Still Be Divided?

Opening a new bank account in your own name might feel like a step toward independence when divorce is on the horizon. But under Georgia law, the source of the funds—not the name on the account—determines whether those assets can be divided during divorce proceedings. Understanding how marital property is classified is essential for protecting your financial future.

Marital vs. Separate Property in Georgia

Georgia is an equitable distribution state, which means the court divides marital property fairly, though not always equally. A common misconception is that simply placing money in a separate account makes it legally separate. That’s not the case.

Money earned by either spouse during the marriage is generally considered marital property, regardless of where it’s stored or whose name is on the account.

So if you open an account during your marriage and fund it with your salary or other income earned while married, that money remains a marital asset and can be divided in the divorce.

Purpose of a Separate Account During Divorce

Even though a separate account doesn’t automatically shield funds from division, it can still serve an important purpose. For many people, it provides:

• A secure place to ensure you have access to money during the divorce process

• Separation from a joint account that may be monitored or controlled by the other spouse

• A way to manage individual expenses during a potentially uncertain time

Just keep in mind that using marital earnings to fund the account means the balance may still be subject to division, even if it’s under your name only.

When Separate Accounts May Truly Be Separate

Not all funds are treated equally. Georgia law does recognize certain assets as separate property, and if your new account is funded only with these types of deposits, it may not be divided. Examples include:

• Gifts from friends or family that are intended only for you

• Inheritances received in your name alone and not commingled with marital assets

• Proceeds from separate property (e.g., rental income from a pre-marriage property)

However, even separate property can impact financial issues like alimony. For example, if you have significant assets in your name, a judge may view you as more financially stable and adjust support accordingly.

How to Protect Your Interests

Opening a separate account can be wise, especially if you need to ensure access to funds while your divorce is pending. But it’s important to understand what it can and can’t do:

• It does not automatically shield money from division

• It can help you stay financially stable during the process

• The source of the funds is what truly matters under Georgia law

To navigate these nuances with clarity and confidence, it’s important to work with an experienced family law attorney. Through our divorce services, we help clients understand what steps to take to safeguard their financial wellbeing.

Schedule a discovery call to learn how we can support you.