We’re all familiar with couples that decide to live separately for a while before actually getting divorced. And typically, these couples use this “trial separation” to decide whether or not they want to pursue formal legal action.

These days, however, more and more couples are deciding to remain separated, rather than divorce – even after they know their marriages are fractured beyond repair.

Why would a woman make this choice? What reasons could there possibly be to live apart from a spouse, and yet remain married? 

In many cases, it boils down to money. You see, sometimes opting for legal separation rather than divorce is a good financial decision. 

But, before I discuss the possible financial benefits of a legal separation, let me clarify a few basic points.