HUNTSVILLE, Ala. — Experts are saying that January is known as national divorce month because a record number of couples file papers to terminate their marriage.
According to the CDC, In 2019 Alabama saw a dip in divorce rates, 3.6 percent, compared to just a few years ago in 2015 when the rate was 3.9 percent.
There are many reasons why people wait until January to file. According to Cornerstone Counseling owner Dr. Stacy Ikard, some people get a divorce at the beginning of the year because of tax reasons. If a couple is married for a least a day in the new year, they can still legally file their taxes together. She says this eases the financial burden of the divorce.
Dr. Ikard also says New Years Resolutions could play a role too. Sometimes the Holidays can be difficult, and families realize they're stronger separated than they are together.
Before you reach the point of filing a divorce, there are steps you can take. Prior to getting married, seek premarital counseling and talk to a professional about things like finances, parenting styles and underlying health conditions.