How to Find Out if Your Spouse is Hiding Money During Divorce

 Posted on March 06, 2025 in Asset Division

Illinois law requires both spouses to fully and completely disclose their assets during the divorce process, but that does not stop some people from trying to hide money. If you suspect that your spouse is not being honest about their finances, there are legal ways to uncover the truth and make sure the property division process is fair. At Weiler & Associates, Inc., our Illinois divorce lawyers are experienced and include a Certified Financial Litigator to help you with challenging financial issues.

How Do People Hide Assets During Divorce?

Some people go to great lengths to manipulate financial records, shift money around, or underreport their true income. One of the most common methods involves transferring money to a friend or relative under the guise of repaying a debt or giving a gift. The receiving party typically returns the money once the divorce is finalized.

Business owners or self-employed individuals often have more opportunities to hide income by fabricating expenses or delaying payments from clients. Overpaying taxes is another tactic that allows a person to receive a refund after the divorce is over.

Some spouses physically hide assets by placing cash in a safe deposit box, purchasing expensive jewelry or artwork, or even storing valuables with a trusted friend. Others create false debt by claiming to owe money to a business associate or relative, with the expectation that the "loan" will be forgiven once the divorce is finalized. Even something as simple as withdrawing small amounts of cash over time and stockpiling it can add up to a substantial hidden fund.

How to Find Hidden Assets in Divorce

If someone is caught hiding money from their spouse in their divorce, they may face serious consequences. To find hidden assets, attorneys often use the discovery process, which requires both parties to disclose financial records and answer specific questions under oath.

This process allows attorneys to request bank statements, tax returns, and other important documents that may reveal discrepancies in financial activity. If a spouse refuses to cooperate, attorneys can issue subpoenas to obtain financial records directly from banks, employers, or businesses.

A forensic accountant may be brought in to analyze tax filings, investment accounts, and business records for signs of hidden money. These professionals look for inconsistencies, such as sudden changes in income, unexplained transfers, or hidden transactions that do not align with a person’s standard financial activity. If a spouse owns a business, an accountant can determine whether income is being intentionally underreported or if assets have been moved through the company.

Personal spending habits can also provide valuable clues. A spouse who suddenly starts withdrawing large amounts of cash, buying expensive items, or making unexplained payments to unknown accounts may be trying to conceal assets. Reviewing credit card statements, loan applications, and property records may also reveal hidden financial activity.

What Happens if the Court Finds Someone Hiding Money During Divorce?

If the court determines that a spouse intentionally concealed assets, the penalties can be severe. Judges may award the other spouse a larger portion of the marital estate or require the dishonest spouse to pay financial sanctions. In some cases, a spouse caught lying about assets under oath may even face perjury charges. Courts do not look favorably on financial dishonesty, especially when it is an attempt to manipulate the outcome of property division.

Contact a St. Charles, IL Divorce Attorney

If you believe your spouse is hiding assets, an experienced attorney can help uncover the truth and protect your financial future. The Kane County, IL asset division lawyers at Weiler & Associates, Inc. understand the complexities of high-conflict divorce and will take the necessary steps to ensure you receive your fair share of the marital estate. To schedule a consultation, call 630-331-9110 today.