7 red flags hidden in a divorce financial affidavit
A divorce financial affidavit is supposed to be a complete, honest picture of someone's money. It rarely is. Here are the seven things to check before you accept any number in one — the same things that quietly cost people their fair share.
1. Income that doesn't match the deposits
The stated monthly income on the affidavit should line up with the actual bank deposits attached to it. When the income figure is lower than the deposits, support and your share both shrink. Compare the two numbers side by side.
2. Assets that are mentioned but never valued
Watch for a retirement account, a business interest, or a property that gets named in passing but never gets a dollar figure. An unvalued asset is an undisclosed asset.
3. Totals that don't add up
Add the individual assets yourself. If they sum to more than the declared 'total marital estate,' there's a gap — and the gap is usually not in your favor.
4. Vague language around side income
Phrases like 'occasional work' or 'amount varies' where a specific number belongs are a way to hide earnings. Real income has real figures.
5. A separation date that conflicts with the calendar
If the affidavit lists one separation date but references a joint vacation, a shared purchase, or a co-signed document after that date, the timeline is off — and timing affects what counts as marital property.
6. Expenses with no documentation
Large claimed expenses (childcare, a 'loan' to a relative, business costs) with no receipts or statements attached are worth questioning.
7. Anything that's just… missing
Compare the affidavit to what you know exists. A missing account, a missing debt, a missing income source — what's left off can matter as much as what's included.
Don't spot it all alone
Upload your document and ScrubMyCase flags every one of these automatically — in plain English, with the exact quotes. Free preview.
Scrub my documentQuestions
What if I find a red flag?
Don't accuse — document. Write down exactly what's inconsistent, gather anything that proves it, and bring it to your attorney or mediator. It's the difference between 'I have a bad feeling' and 'here's the specific problem.'
Can a tool check this for me?
Yes — that's exactly what ScrubMyCase does. Upload the affidavit and it flags every one of these automatically, in plain English, with the exact quotes.
This guide is general information, not legal advice. For your specific situation, talk to a licensed attorney.