Divorce-Proof Your Finances

Take it from Donald Trump: Get your financial house in order before you get married. Thanks to a prenuptial agreement, Marla Maples received just $2 million when she and The Donald divorced in 1999 -- a far cry from the $25 million Ivana received in 1992.

Even if you don't have the assets to justify a prenup, it's important to enter what you think will be the most blissful phase of your life with an eye to your financial future, just in case you end up joining the Trumps in divorce court. Here are a few steps you can take to protect your finances in the event of the unthinkable.

Ask questions

Before you enter into a business deal, you'd want to conduct due diligence on your potential partner. A marriage should be no different, given that the state considers it a legal partnership between two individuals. No matter how uncomfortable it makes you, ask your betrothed about his or her financial history. It's important to start the partnership off on the right foot. If you can't talk about money now, what makes you think you'll be more open to doing so after the wedding?

Specifically, take a look at each other's tax returns for the past five years, investment accounts, life-insurance policies, and a last will and testament if either of you has one. Check retirement accounts and other assets and be sure to ask about debts and liabilities.

You don't need to call off the wedding if you find out that your loved one is lousy with money. Getting everything out in the open can help avoid unpleasant surprises down the road and lay the groundwork to address any problems as a team. Be as open about your finances as you expect your spouse to be about his or hers.