My Husband Threatened to Stop Paying Bills if I File for Divorce; Can he Do that?

There’s almost nothing scarier than being without money.

You can’t pay the mortgage. You can’t feed the kids. You can’t do anything.

Controlling husbands know this, and they’ll use that fear to control their wives.

Usually, it happens like this: wife tells husband she wants a divorce; husband threatens her, saying if she leaves or files for divorce, he’ll cut her off from the money and she and the kids won’t have anything.

It’s all about control, and it works.

Lots of women stay with their husbands just because they’re scared about not having any money if they leave.

I can’t tell you how many women relate this story to me on every week.

So, can your husband cut you off and stop paying if you file for divorce?

The answer is yes and no.

Yes: if your husband makes all the money, then he can keep the money from you by redirecting his paycheck to an account you’re not on.

Now, this doesn’t actually happen that often. Most husbands are more talk than action, and they don’t cut their wives and children off.

(Note: this possibility, while rare, is why I tell wives, when they know they’re about to file for divorce, to take 50% of the money in the joint bank accounts. That way they have some money set aside in case their husbands do cut them off.)

No: your husband really can’t cut you off from marital money.

If you file for divorce and your husband stops giving you and the kids money, stops paying bills, etc., he will get crucified in court.

It will negatively affect him for the rest of the case, and engaging in this sort of behavior will often mean he’ll end up with less custody and parent-time.

If he cuts you off, you’ll be able to get a hearing with the court quickly and start receiving temporary alimony, temporary child support, and payment on the bills.

In conclusion, yes, your husband can cut you off, but it will backfire on him in court and actually advantage you in the end.

Call Brown Family Law

If you find yourself facing a Utah divorce, please call 801.685.9999 for an in-person consultation, or use our online scheduling tool.

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I would give them 10 stars if I could. Clay was professional and super organized. He took the time to explain everything. I would highly recommend him for any family law needed. Melanie was a godsend. She not only kept me continually informed of the progress, she sent texts of encouragement and support throughout the entire process. I would give her 100 stars for going above and beyond to make this experience less stressful. Her encouragement and genuine caring were comforting and calming. The entire staff at Brown Law are on your side and if you are lucky enough to get Clay and Melanie on your team you will not be disappointed. Thanks! Mack M.

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Working with Daniel Young at Brown Family Law was a truly positive experience during one of the most difficult times of my life. From the start, Daniel was knowledgeable, compassionate, and incredibly responsive.
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This 5-star review is for Nathaniel Garrabrandt at Brown Family Law. Nathaniel was just what we needed. He helped guide us with a level of professionalism, efficiency, and genuine care that made a real difference during a challenging time. He is always thoughtful and respectful, and he never makes you feel like just another case. His communication was clear (with regular check-ins), his advice was solid and uncomplicated, and I always felt that he had his client's best interest at heart as he made suggestions. I’m grateful to have had such a capable and compassionate attorney to work with. You hope you never need these kind of services, but when you do, you want the best... and someone with high integrity. Nathaniel truly deserves all 5 of these stars, in every way.

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Russell Yauney was my attorney at Brown Family Law. Throughout the process, Russell and his paralegal Conor, were extremely helpful and patient. They were highly responsive, thorough, and most importantly: did not make me feel insignificant or embarrassed for asking clarifying questions. Russell made himself available and whenever he wasn't, Conor was. The Friday Phone Calls were reliable and I knew I could expect an update each week. The firm's texting abilities also made it easy to send a quick question/concern if I ever needed it. Russell was a fantastic attorney and guide to have throughout my situation. I highly recommend this firm.

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My Husband Threatened to Stop Paying Bills if I File for Divorce; Can he Do that?

So, can your husband cut you off and stop paying if you file for divorce?

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