FAQs

What does a Certified Divorce Financial Analyst (CDFA®) do?

A Certified Divorce Financial Analyst® examines the financial details of your divorce to ensure accurate valuation and equitable division of assets. This includes analyzing complex assets like retirement accounts, business interests, stock options, and real estate, calculating tax implications, and projecting long-term financial impacts of settlement scenarios. Betty works as your trusted advisor to provide the thorough documentation and clear analysis your attorney needs to build a strong case.

How much does divorce financial analysis cost?

Most engagements range from $1,500 to $15,000+ depending on the complexity of your situation rather than the size of your estate. Complex assets, high-conflict dynamics, or contradictory financial information may require more extensive analysis. Each engagement begins with a 30-minute complimentary consultation to discuss your situation, determine scope, and provide an estimated cost before any work begins. You determine the extent of analysis that serves your best interests.

How do I divide RSUs and stock options in a divorce in Washington State?

Restricted stock units (RSUs) and stock options require specialized analysis beyond simply splitting shares. The division depends on vesting schedules, whether shares were granted during marriage, tax implications of different division methods, and post-separation accrual calculations. Betty examines grant dates, vesting timelines, tax treatment (ISOs vs. NSOs), and optimal division strategies to ensure equity compensation is properly valued and fairly allocated—whether through in-kind transfers, offset values, or other methods that minimize tax consequences.

Do I need a financial analyst if my divorce seems straightforward?

Even seemingly simple divorces benefit from accurate financial documentation. Betty’s financial declarations and budget analysis give your attorney confidence from the start and can prevent costly mistakes. Understanding the true value of your home, the tax implications of keeping certain retirement accounts, or the long-term costs of different asset division scenarios often reveals complications that weren’t initially apparent. Early analysis strengthens your position and can lead to more equitable settlements.

How is a pension valued and divided in divorce?

Pension valuation requires actuarial analysis to determine present value—it’s not as simple as splitting an account balance. Betty calculates the pension’s worth using actuarial assumptions, evaluates survivor benefit options, applies time rules to determine marital vs. separate property portions, and compares division methods (present value offset vs. deferred distribution through a QDRO). Each approach has different tax implications and impacts on long-term retirement security that must be carefully examined.

Can you help find hidden assets in a divorce?

When financial irregularities arise—unexplained income fluctuations, lifestyle inconsistencies, or missing documentation—Betty’s forensic investigation provides systematic analysis to uncover the truth. This includes examining bank statements for unusual patterns, analyzing business records for diverted income, tracing asset transfers, reviewing tax returns for inconsistencies, and documenting lifestyle expenditures. The analysis creates clear audit trails and court-ready reporting that strengthens your negotiating position.

Do you work only for one spouse, or can you work as a neutral analyst?

Betty can serve as a neutral financial analyst, work exclusively for one party, or work with couples who are approaching their divorce cooperatively. As a neutral, she provides objective analysis that both parties can rely on. When working for one spouse, she serves as your trusted advisor ensuring your financial interests are thoroughly documented and protected. The approach depends on your specific situation and what serves your best interests.

What’s the difference between divorce financial analysis and financial planning?

Divorce financial analysis focuses specifically on the financial aspects of your divorce settlement—accurate valuation, equitable division, tax implications, and documentation for legal proceedings. This is Betty’s primary service through Betty Hedrick Divorce Solutions LLC. After your divorce is finalized, comprehensive financial planning and investment management for your post-divorce life are available through The Capeloto & Hedrick Co, though there is no expectation or obligation to continue the relationship.