Love and Money

By:Msn Money Staff
Posted by: Scarlett Lu

Thinking of marriage? Prepare to bare your financial soul. Experts agree that couples need to talk about money -- the sooner, the better.

Before you get to 'I do'

Consider a prenuptial agreement. It's not just a document detailing how to split the assets after a divorce. It can absolve you of your spouse's debts, maintain assets for children from a previous marriage, keep a family business intact and ensure that the family home stays in the family. (See the video "Do you need a prenup?")

• Bring up the idea of a prenup as soon as the relationship gets serious. It can help clarify each other's circumstances and goals.

• Allow at least three months before the wedding to work out the details. A valid prenup involves lawyers and full financial disclosure. (See "The prenup problem.")

• Most prenups provide that whatever property or debts you bring to the marriage will remain yours if the marriage dissolves. They also protect what you don't have yet, including property you expect to inherit.

• No state will allow you to waive child support, dictate child custody or otherwise impinge on the rights of your children. click here to read more.