How Do You Handle Divorce in Illinois When Your Spouse Controls the Money?

 Posted on December 04, 2025 in Asset Division

Many questions come up when people find themselves considering divorce. The process can be complicated at the best of times, but if one spouse controls the money, divorce can seem even harder to navigate for the other spouse. 

In Illinois, the law protects both spouses, even when one person controls the finances. You still have the right to financial support, access to records, and a fair share of marital property. With help from an experienced Wheaton, IL divorce lawyer, you can move forward with your divorce in a more financially stable position.

How Do I Leave My Spouse When I Do Not Have Access to Our Money?

When your spouse handles every account and controls spending, it can feel impossible to leave. However, Illinois law strives to find fair solutions for everyone. Under 750 ILCS 5/501(a)(1), the court can grant temporary financial support while your divorce is not yet finalized. This support can cover rent, food, and legal costs, giving you time to prepare for long-term financial independence.

A judge can also issue a temporary restraining order on assets to stop your spouse from transferring or hiding assets. This order prevents one person from draining accounts or selling property before everything is divided. If you can, start collecting copies of pay stubs, bank statements, and tax returns. These records will help your attorney show what money exists and where it has gone.

Can I Get Access to Our Finances During Divorce?

Both spouses must share financial information during divorce. That means that each person has to file a financial affidavit that lists all income, expenses, debts, and property. Your lawyer can also request bank records, investment statements, and other documents if your spouse refuses to provide them.

Illinois courts place a strong emphasis on full financial disclosure. Judges can issue sanctions when a spouse hides income, refuses to turn over documents, or provides misleading information. 

What if My Spouse Is Hiding Money or Lying About Assets?

Hiding money during a divorce is illegal in Illinois. If you think your spouse is concealing assets or lying about income, your attorney can investigate. Subpoenas, depositions, and a forensic accountant who tracks financial activity may all be needed to get to the bottom of it.

Some red flags that suggest your spouse may be hiding money include:

• Missing or incomplete tax forms

• Bank accounts or credit cards you did not know about

• Sudden withdrawals or wire transfers to friends or relatives

• Unexplained business expenses or "loans"

• A lifestyle that does not match reported income

If your lawyer finds evidence of hidden money, the court can take serious action. A judge may award you a larger share of the marital property as a penalty for your spouse’s dishonesty. The court may also order your spouse to pay your legal costs.

Contact Our DuPage County, IL Divorce Attorneys Today

If your spouse has limited your access to money or information, Andrew Cores Family Law Group can help you prepare for divorce. Our experienced Wheaton, IL divorce lawyers understand the importance of financial stability. We are dedicated to getting results for our clients through negotiation, alternative dispute resolution, or, when necessary, litigation. Contact our office today at 630-871-1002 to schedule a free consultation and find out how we can help.