A Car During Divorce: Can I Buy

The primary risk is that anything purchased before the divorce is final—including a new vehicle—may be classified as . This could mean your spouse is legally entitled to up to 50% of the equity in that car. Key Legal & Financial Considerations

Buying a car during a divorce is generally possible, but it is often discouraged by legal experts because it can significantly complicate your property division . can i buy a car during divorce

While you can take out a solo loan, you cannot obligate your spouse to that debt without their consent. Furthermore, high-interest debt taken on during a divorce can negatively impact your final settlement. The primary risk is that anything purchased before

In states like California, if you buy a car using marital funds (like income earned during the marriage), it is considered community property. Even if you use "separate" money, your spouse's lawyer may challenge the source of those funds. While you can take out a solo loan,

Many jurisdictions issue standard orders at the start of a divorce that prohibit either spouse from making large, non-essential purchases or transferring significant assets. Buying a car could potentially violate these orders.

“Buying a Car During Divorce: You can buy a car during divorce, but it is considered marital property, and your spouse may have a claim to 50% of its equity.” Karp & Iancu