Divorce Before the Holidays: Should You File Now or Wait Until January?
- Beth Carrier
- Sep 25
- 3 min read
The decision to divorce is rarely easy — but when the calendar turns to fall, the question takes on a new layer of complexity: Should you move forward with divorce before the holidays, or hold off until the new year?
This is one of the most common questions couples ask as the holidays approach. And the truth is, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The “right” timing depends on emotional readiness, financial logistics, and family dynamics. But understanding the pros and cons of divorcing before the holidays can help you make a decision that sets you up for a more peaceful future.
Why Many People Choose Divorce Before the Holidays
The weeks leading up to Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s are often when unresolved tension in a marriage comes into sharp focus. Rather than faking one more “happy” holiday photo or waiting until January to start over, many couples decide that filing now is the best way to reclaim peace and control.
Here’s why:
Avoid holiday pressure. If the idea of family gatherings, gift exchanges, or shared traditions fills you with dread, moving forward now can lift that emotional weight.
Financial clarity before year-end. Filing before December 31 can simplify tax filing, budgeting, and end-of-year financial planning.
New year, clean slate. Many clients say that finalizing or at least starting their divorce before the holidays allows them to enter January with closure — rather than dragging unresolved conflict into another year.
Reduce conflict during festivities. Tensions tend to spike during the holidays. If your relationship is already strained, taking proactive steps now can prevent ugly blow-ups that leave lasting scars for you and your children.
When Waiting Until After the Holidays Might Be Wiser
There are also valid reasons to delay filing until the new year. Every situation is unique, and for some families, patience pays off. You may want to wait if:
Your children need stability. If you have young kids, maintaining familiar holiday routines this year might be more beneficial emotionally — even if separation is inevitable.
Your finances need preparation. Year-end bonuses, taxes, or property sales might affect your divorce terms. Waiting a few weeks could strengthen your position.
You need more time to plan. Gathering documents, exploring mediation options, or lining up support resources before filing can lead to a smoother process.
How to Prepare If You’re Considering Divorce Before the Holidays
If you’re leaning toward starting the process now, here are some steps you can take in the coming weeks:
Consult a professional mediator. If you’re considering divorce before the holidays, consult with a professional mediator first — it’s often faster, more affordable, and far less damaging to future co-parenting than hiring attorneys right away..
Get your financial house in order. Start organizing bank statements, tax returns, and property information.
Download the PivotPoint Resolutions™ Free Mediation Preparation Checklist
Have honest conversations. If safe and possible, discuss timing and expectations with your spouse to reduce conflict.
Prioritize emotional well-being. Work with a therapist or support group to navigate the emotional weight of this decision.
The Bottom Line
Whether you choose to file for divorce before the holidays or wait until the new year, what matters most is making a decision that supports your long-term peace, stability, and happiness. Divorce is not the end — it’s the start of a new chapter. And the sooner you step into that next chapter with clarity and confidence, the sooner you can build the future you deserve.
If you’re considering divorce before the holidays, you don’t have to navigate it alone — schedule a free consultation today with PivotPoint Resolutions™ and let’s create a peaceful path forward.
