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Postnuptial Agreement

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POSTNUPTIAL AGREEMENT

READ BEFORE SIGNING: IMPORTANT NOTICE: EACH PARTY TO THIS AGREEMENT AGREES THAT THEY HAVE HAD AN OPPORTUNITY TO CONSULT WITH AN ATTORNEY OF THEIR CHOICE LICENSED TO PRACTICE LAW IN THEIR STATE OF RESIDENCE (NOT THE SAME ATTORNEY) AND THAT THEY HAVE FULLY READ, UNDERSTAND AND AGREE TO THE TERMS OF THIS AGREEMENT. EACH PARTY FURTHER AGREES THAT THEY ARE NOT ACTING UNDER DURESS OR UNDUE INFLUENCE IN EXECUTING THIS AGREEMENT AND THAT EXECUTION OF SAME IS DONE FREELY AND VOLUNTARILY.

THIS AGREEMENT, made this day of , , between (Name), of (Address), ("first party or Wife"), and (Name), of (Address), ("second party or Husband"),

W I T N E S S E T H

WHEREAS, Wife and Husband are now married, having been married on the day of , , in County, ;

WHEREAS, the parties now desire to enter into this agreement to clarify and establish their respective and collective rights, titles and interests in the separate and joint property of the parties, in the event of divorce, death or other circumstances that would serve to terminate their marriage, but without the present intent of either party to obtain a divorce or a legal separation;

WHEREAS, by execution of this agreement, the parties warrant and represent that they have fully disclosed their financial status, including all assets, liabilities, and income, as listed in the financial statement disclosures, attached as Exhibits A and B;

WHEREAS, the parties agree that this agreement is to be effective upon execution in accordance with the applicable laws of the State of Pennsylvania;

NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual promises, covenants, warranties and other benefits and advantages accruing to each party, the parties agree as set forth above and below as follows:

SECTION 1
SEPARATE PROPERTY

Each of the parties shall retain full control of his or her own separate property, real, personal and mixed owned at the time of execution of this agreement and described in Exhibits A and B, wherever the property is located. By the terms of this agreement, each party hereby waives and relinquishes all claim to the separate property of the other. Each of the parties shall have and hereby is given the right to lease, sell, convey, mortgage or otherwise dispose of their separate property and receive all monies, rents, issues, income and profits thereof without any restrictions and without interference from the other party. Each of the parties shall be responsible for satisfying any tax obligations regarding his or her separate property. Despite any other provisions of this instrument, this agreement shall not affect in any way the parties' rights, titles, powers, duties, discretions, immunities and interest in any property owned in joint tenancy or entirety with rights of survivorship.

SECTION 2
JOINT PROPERTY

The parties agree that all property not specifically designated as separate property shall be deemed to be part of their joint estates and considered their joint property. By the terms of this agreement, the parties evidence their intent to grant the powers and rights to the parties as to jointly owned property as is provided to spouses by operation of law.

SECTION 3
SEPARATION AND DIVORCE

To the extent permitted by law, this agreement shall govern the rights and obligations of the parties in the event of death of either or both parties, separation or divorce. Although the parties do not presently intend to separate or divorce, the parties agree this agreement shall be binding on both parties in the event of separation or divorce, and shall, if applicable, and allowed by law, be incorporated into any divorce decree.

In the event of separation or divorce, the parties agree that the following types of property will be designated as either the separate or joint property of the parties:

(a) All property acquired by each party in their own name and/or with the use of their own assets or income prior to the execution of this agreement: separate or joint;

(b) All property acquired by each party in their own name and/or with the use of their own assets or income after the execution of this agreement: separate or joint;

(c) All property acquired in the joint names of both parties and/or with the use of joint assets or income prior to the execution of this agreement: separate or joint;

(d) All property acquired in the joint names of both parties and/or with the use of joint assets or income after the execution of this agreement: separate or joint;

(e) All property acquired in exchange for or from the sale proceeds of property owned by either party prior to the execution of this agreement: separate or joint;

(f) All property acquired in exchange for or from the sale proceeds of property owned by either party after the execution of this agreement: separate or joint;

(g) All property acquired in exchange for or from the sale proceeds of property owned by both parties before execution of this agreement: separate or joint;

(h) All property acquired in exchange for or from the sale proceeds of property owned by both parties after execution of this agreement: separate or joint;

(i) All monetary awards or settlements resulting from a lawsuit or other legal proceeding involving either party before the execution of this agreement: separate or joint;

(j) All monetary awards or settlements resulting from a lawsuit or other legal proceeding involving either party after the execution of this agreement: separate or joint;

(k) All monetary awards or settlements resulting from a lawsuit or other legal proceeding involving both parties before the execution of this agreement: separate or joint;

(l) All monetary award or settlements resulting from a lawsuit or other legal proceeding involving both parties after the execution of this agreement: separate or joint;

(m) All insurance proceeds received by either party before execution of this agreement: separate or joint;

(n) All insurance proceeds received by either party after execution of this agreement: separate or joint;

(o) All insurance proceeds received by both parties before execution of this agreement: separate or joint;

(p) All insurance proceeds received by both parties after execution of this agreement: separate or joint;

(q) All gambling or lottery winnings received by either party before execution of this agreement: separate or joint;

(r) All gambling or lottery winnings received by either party after execution of this agreement: separate or joint;

(s) All earnings, salary, wages, bonuses, commissions or dividends of either party received or earned before the execution of this agreement: separate or joint;

(t) All earnings, salary, wages, bonuses, commissions or dividends of either party received or earned after the execution of this agreement: separate or joint;

(u) Other:

Not applicable or The parties further agree that in the event of separation or divorce, the following additional provisions shall apply notwithstanding the other provisions of this agreement:

(a) The Wife shall be entitled to receive property of Husband described as follows:

(b) The Husband shall be entitled to receive property of Wife described as follows:

(c) The following property shall be sold and the proceeds, less expenses, divided equally between the parties:

(d) The marital domicile shall be:

SECTION 4
DEBTS AND LIABILITIES

The parties agree that each party shall pay the debts and liabilities incurred prior to execution of this agreement in that party’s name as separate property, and in no case shall either party be held liable for the debts and liabilities incurred in the other party’s name prior to execution of this agreement, but that the parties shall jointly pay for the debts and liabilities incurred in both parties’ names prior to the execution of this agreement as joint property; or the parties shall jointly pay the debts and liabilities incurred prior to the execution of this agreement in one or both party’s name as joint property.

The parties further agree that each party shall pay the debts and liabilities incurred after the execution of this agreement in that party’s name as separate property, and in no case shall either party be held liable for the debts and liabilities incurred in the other party’s name after the execution of this agreement, but that the parties shall jointly pay for the debts and liabilities incurred in both parties’ names after the execution of this agreement as joint property; or the parties shall jointly pay for the debts and liabilities incurred after the execution of this agreement in either one or both parties’ names as joint property.

SECTION 5
WAIVER OF MARITAL RIGHTS TO ESTATE

Not applicable or Each of the parties hereby waives and releases to the other any and all of his or her right, title and interest of every kind and description in any and all property acquired by the other party by inheritance or other means and to all or a portion of the property of the other party which he or she may have, acquire, enjoy or be seized by reason of, or during or after, their marriage, as the wife, husband, widow or widower of the other party, whether by way of dower, courtesy, homestead, widow's allowance, statutory share or provision, descent, community property inheritance, succession or otherwise.

SECTION 6
VOLUNTARY GIFTS

Nothing contained in this agreement is intended to preclude either party from voluntarily making provision for, or granting powers or rights to, the other party in and by the party’s last will and testament, a codicil thereto or otherwise.

SECTION 7
WAIVER OF RIGHTS TO PENSION/RETIREMENT FUNDS

Not applicable or Each party agrees that he or she shall retain all of the rights, titles and interests in the pension or other retirement plan or account in his or her name prior to and after execution of this agreement, including any income accruing or accrued from such plan or account and any increases in the value of such plan or account that result from depositing separate assets or income. The parties agree that regardless of the source of funds used in any pension, retirement or other deferred compensation plans or accounts, each party may maintain and continue such plans or accounts and each party waives any rights, titles and interests in the other’s plans or accounts.

SECTION 8
ADDITIONAL OR FURTHER DOCUMENTS; COOPERATION

Each party agrees that he or she will sign and execute any further or additional documents as may be necessary to put into effect the intended purposes of this agreement, such as any deeds, bills of sale, assignments, affidavits, tax forms or other instruments of transfer and title that are required in order to establish the parties’ respective rights in their separate and joint property. The designation of property as separate or joint, however, shall not be affected by a party’s failure to execute a necessary document, but the terms of this agreement shall control such designation.

SECTION 9
ENTIRE AGREEMENT

This Agreement constitutes the entire agreement between the parties pertaining to its subject matter and it supersedes all prior contemporaneous agreements, representations and understandings of the parties. No supplement, modification or amendment of this Agreement shall be binding unless executed in writing by all parties.

SECTION 10
AMENDMENT OR REVOCATION

The parties agree to reserve the right to amend or revoke this agreement during the joint lives of the parties and the parties’ marriage by a written amendment or revocation signed by both parties.

SECTION 11
ABSENCE OF DURESS OR UNDUE INFLUENCE

The parties agree and state that each has freely and voluntarily entered into this agreement. This agreement was executed free of any duress, coercion, collusion, or undue influence, and the terms of this agreement are not unconscionable, but are fair, just, and equitable. Both parties were provided prior to execution of this agreement a fair and reasonable disclosure of the property and financial obligations of the other party and each party had, or reasonably could have had, an adequate knowledge of the property and financial obligations of the other party.

SECTION 12
SEVERABILITY

If any portion of the agreement shall be held to be invalid or unenforceable for any reason, then all the remaining parts or portions shall be construed, implemented and administered in full force and effect as if such invalid or unenforceable portion did not appear herein.

SECTION 13
CONTROLLING LAW

This agreement shall be controlled, construed and given effect by and under the laws of the State of Pennsylvania. It is the intent of the parties that the Agreement be enforced to the fullest extent permissible under applicable laws and public policies.

SECTION 14
SUCCESSORS AND ASSIGNS

This Agreement shall be binding upon and inure to the benefit of the parties hereto and their respective successors, assigns, executors, administrators, and legal representatives.

SECTION 15
MISCELLANEOUS CLAUSES

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have executed this agreement on the day and year first above written.

FIRST PARTY (“WIFE”)

SECOND PARTY (“HUSBAND”)

Approved:

Attorney for First Party:

Attorney for Second Party:

Note: This agreement must be executed before a notary public.

STATE OF

COUNTY OF

On this day of , , before me, , the undersigned officer, personally appeared , known to me to be the person whose name is subscribed to the within instrument and acknowledged that he executed the same for the purposes therein contained.

In witness whereof I hereunto set my hand and official seal.

____________________________________

Notary Public, State of

Printed Name:

Commission Expires:

STATE OF

COUNTY OF

On this day of , , before me, , the undersigned officer, personally appeared , known to me to be the person whose name is subscribed to the within instrument and acknowledged that he executed the same for the purposes therein contained.

In witness whereof I hereunto set my hand and official seal.

____________________________________

Notary Public, State of

Printed Name:

Commission Expires:

EXHIBIT A
FINANCIAL STATEMENT DISCLOSURE OF WIFE

I. Assets (Describe all assets considered separate property of Wife, including approximate value)

a. Real Estate

b. Bank Accounts and Cash (including life insurance cash value, and the numbers, names and banks of all financial, checking and savings accounts)

c. Trusts

d. Vehicles (including year, make and model)

e. Other (including securities, stocks, bonds, pension/retirement plans or accounts, etc.)

II. Debts (Describe all debts and liabilities, including all notes payable, mortgages, loans, etc.)

III. Annual Income (including salary, bonus, commissions, dividends, etc.) (Attach copy of Federal Income Tax Return and most recent paycheck stub.)

EXHIBIT B
FINANCIAL STATEMENT DISCLOSURE OF HUSBAND

I. Assets (Describe all assets considered separate property of Husband, including approximate value)

a. Real Estate

b. Bank Accounts and Cash (including life insurance cash value, and the numbers, names and banks of all financial, checking and savings accounts)

c. Trusts

d. Vehicles (including year, make and model)

e. Other (including securities, stocks, bonds, pension/retirement plans or accounts, etc.)

II. Liabilities or Debts (Describe all debts and liabilities, including all notes payable, mortgages, loans, etc.)

III. Annual Income (including salary, bonus, commissions, dividends, etc.) (Attach copy of Federal Income Tax Return and most recent paycheck stub as proof of income.)

Enter text

What a Postnuptial Agreement Is and When It’s Used

A Postnuptial Agreement is a written contract between spouses that defines ownership of property, rights to support, and division of assets should the marriage end or other triggering events occur. It is executed after marriage and can cover separate versus marital property, spousal support waivers, debt allocation, and procedures for dispute resolution. While terms vary by state, the agreement must meet standard contract requirements—mutual assent, consideration, and competent parties—and is often strengthened by full financial disclosure and independent legal advice.

Why Couples Use a Postnuptial Agreement

A Postnuptial Agreement provides legal clarity about property and support, reduces litigation risk, and preserves expectations for estate and business continuity. When properly drafted and executed, it helps spouses make informed choices about asset division and financial responsibilities while married.

Why Couples Use a Postnuptial Agreement

Who Typically Uses a Postnuptial Agreement

Parties should weigh the legal, tax, and emotional consequences and typically consult family law counsel to confirm enforceability in their state.

  • Couples facing large asset changes or inheritance events who want to protect separate property and clarify expectations.
  • Business owners and entrepreneurs who need to protect company interests and define management or buyout terms.
  • Families blending children from prior relationships who want clear estate and support arrangements.

Step-by-Step: Drafting and Executing a Postnuptial Agreement

Follow a consistent process to reduce enforceability risk: prepare, disclose, review with counsel, sign, and preserve records.

  • 01
    Gather financials: Collect asset, debt, income, and valuation documents for full disclosure.
  • 02
    Draft terms: Define property categories, support terms, and dispute resolution procedures.
  • 03
    Legal review: Each spouse should have independent counsel review the agreement.
  • 04
    Sign and notarize: Execute with required notarization/witnessing to strengthen enforceability.

Core Clauses Found in a Professional Postnuptial Agreement

A well-structured Postnuptial Agreement contains precise, enforceable clauses that allocate property, address support, and set procedures for future disputes or amendment.

Recitals and Definitions

Clear recitals state the parties, marriage date, and purpose. Definitions section avoids ambiguity by defining key terms such as 'Separate Property,' 'Marital Property,' and 'Net Proceeds.'

Property Allocation

Specifies which assets remain separate and which are marital, including treatment of post-agreement acquisitions, investment gains, and retirement account distributions.

Spousal Support

States whether spousal support is waived, limited, or fixed; describes triggering events and any agreed amounts or formulas for maintenance.

Debt and Liability

Allocates responsibility for premarital and marital debts, including creditor notice obligations and who bears defense costs for claims against jointly-held liabilities.

Amendment and Revocation

Describes how the agreement can be amended or revoked—usually requiring a signed, written amendment with the same formalities as the original.

Dispute Resolution

Provides a forum and method for resolving disagreements (mediation, arbitration), choice of law, and venue to reduce costly courtroom litigation.

Security and Compliance Considerations for Electronic Postnuptial Agreements

Encryption: AES-256 at rest and TLS 1.2/1.3 in transit
Audit Trail: Detailed timestamps, IP, and action history
Legal Frameworks: ESIGN and UETA compliance for e-signatures
HIPAA Considerations: BAA required when PHI is included
Access Controls: Role-based access and multi-factor authentication
Retention Support: Secure export to PDF, DOCX, and archival formats

Common Mistakes That Undermine a Postnuptial Agreement

  • Incomplete financial disclosure by one party, which courts often view as evidence of unfairness and may set the agreement aside.
  • Vague or ambiguous language about property categories or valuation methods that leads to differing interpretations at enforcement.
  • Failing to obtain independent legal advice for each spouse, increasing the risk a court will find coercion or unfair bargaining.
  • Skipping notarization or required witness formalities where state practice favors notarization for reliability and later probate processes.

Key Risks if the Agreement Is Deficient

Unenforceable Agreement: May be voided by a court
Financial Reversal: Parties may lose intended protections
Tax Consequences: Poor planning can create taxable events
Creditor Claims: Creditors may challenge transfers
Fraud Allegations: Non-disclosure can prompt fraud claims
Litigation Costs: Substantial legal fees and delays

Typical Online Workflow for Creating and Signing a Postnuptial Agreement

Electronically preparing and signing a Postnuptial Agreement follows a predictable workflow: upload, configure signer roles and fields, authenticate signers, and capture signatures with an audit trail.

  • Upload Document: Import PDF or DOCX of the drafted agreement
  • Place Fields: Add signature, date, and initial fields for each signer
  • Authenticate: Use email, SMS code, or stronger verification
  • Execute: Signers apply signatures and notarize if required

Recommended Digital Workflow Settings for a Postnuptial Agreement

Configure the signing workflow to preserve evidentiary details and reduce signer friction while meeting legal formality needs.

Field Configuration
Signer Authentication Email + SMS OTP; consider KBA for higher assurance
Field Types Signature, initial, date, text, checkbox, conditional fields
Conditional Logic Use to show separate exhibits only when applicable
Notifications Enable reminders and completion receipts for each signer

Platform and File Requirements for Electronic Execution

Ensure the chosen platform can export a complete certificate of completion and store signed originals in secure, access-controlled repositories.

  • Formats: PDF, DOCX, and HTML are supported
  • Integrations: Salesforce, NetSuite, Google Workspace, and Box
  • Legal Standards: ESIGN / UETA compliance and tamper-evident logs

Timing, Deadlines, and How Long Execution Typically Takes

Postnuptial Agreements have no universal filing deadline but timing affects enforceability; early execution with full disclosure and time to review improves court acceptance.

Effective Date:

Date entered as MM/DD/YYYY; governs when terms apply

Signing Window:

Allow several days for review and independent counsel

Notarization Timeframe:

Notarize at signing or as required by state practice

Recordation:

Not typically recorded unless real property is involved

Retention:

Keep originals indefinitely; retain copies per retention rules

eSignature Pricing and Feature Comparison for Executing Postnuptial Agreements

Compare basic pricing and essential features for eSignature vendors when choosing a solution for secure execution and notarization workflows.

signNow DocuSign Adobe Sign PandaDoc HelloSign
Starting Price $8/user/mo $15/user/mo $14/user/mo $19/user/mo $15/user/mo
Free Trial 7-day free trial Yes Yes Yes Yes
Bulk Send Yes Yes Yes Yes No
Audit Trail Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
HIPAA Compliant Yes Yes Yes No No
Envelope Cap No cap 100 envelopes/user/year Varies Varies Varies

Frequently Asked Questions About Postnuptial Agreements

Answers to common concerns about validity, signing, corrections, and how electronic execution interacts with state law and notarization requirements.


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