Let’s be honest—talking about prenups isn’t exactly romantic. But if you’re getting married and thinking about your future, you might be wondering, what is a prenup and do I need one? A prenup (short for prenuptial agreement) is basically a legal contract couples sign before marriage to outline what happens to their money, assets, and debts if the relationship ends.
Now before you panic, know this: it’s not just something for celebrities or millionaires. In fact, prenups are becoming increasingly popular among everyday couples—and for good reason.
How Does a Prenup Work?
So, what is a prenup and how does it actually work? A prenuptial agreement spells out how you and your partner will handle things like property, finances, and even pets if you separate or get divorced. It gives both of you a clear understanding of what to expect—and that can make life so much easier down the road.
For example, you can use a prenup to:
- Keep certain assets separate (like an inheritance or business)
- Decide what happens to your joint savings
- Protect personal debt
- Outline spousal support terms
Think of it like a financial roadmap—one that’s customized to your relationship.
Is It Common for People to Have Prenups?
Yes! While prenups were once seen as something only the rich needed, that’s no longer the case. According to divorce attorneys and platforms like HelloPrenup, more millennial and Gen Z couples are asking what is a prenup and choosing to create one.
After all, with divorce rates hovering around 50%, many couples prefer to be proactive instead of reactive.
Should I Get a Prenup? Take The Prenup Quiz
Still not sure if a prenup is right for you? Take my free Prenup Quiz here to see if it makes sense based on your life and relationship. But here are a few reasons why a prenup might be a smart move:
You’ve Been Previously Married
If you’ve been through a divorce before, you know how tough (and expensive) it can be. A prenup can help protect you this time around.
You Want to Protect Yourself from Your Spouse’s Debts
Student loans? Credit card debt? If your partner brings a lot of debt into the marriage, a prenup can keep it from becoming your problem.
You Want to Help Simplify a Divorce
No one goes into a marriage expecting to get divorced. But if it happens, a prenup can make the process faster, less stressful, and much less expensive.
When Shall I Raise It With My Partner and How?
The sooner, the better. If you’re thinking about asking for a prenup, bring it up early in the wedding planning process—at least 30 days before the big day. This gives both of you time to talk through it, get legal advice, and avoid any last-minute pressure.
Be honest, be kind, and explain why it’s important to you. Remember, what is a prenup is really a conversation about planning your future—not predicting a breakup.
Approach it as a conversation about mutual protection and future planning, not “just in case we split up.” You can say something like:
“Hey, I love you and want to be honest about money and the future. I think we should talk about a prenup—not because I think we’ll break up, but because I want us to be clear and fair with each other.”
How to Get a Prenup
Traditionally, getting a prenup means each partner hires their own lawyer to negotiate the terms. That can be expensive—often $5,000 to $10,000 or more.
But thanks to modern platforms like HelloPrenup, you can now create a legally sound, state-specific prenup online at a much lower cost. It’s perfect for couples who want something fair, fast, and affordable.
Here’s what the prenup process usually looks like:
- You both disclose your finances
- You talk through your goals and preferences
- You create a customized agreement
- You both review and sign before the wedding
What’s in a Prenup Contract?
Every prenup is different, but most include:
- What happens to property and savings
- Who keeps what in a divorce
- How debt will be handled
- Spousal support terms (if any)
Some prenups also include clauses about retirement savings, business ownership, or family heirlooms. Just remember: what is a prenup will vary depending on your specific situation and state laws.
How Much Does a Prenup Cost?
It depends. Traditional prenups done by lawyers can cost thousands. But using an online service like HelloPrenup can save you a ton—starting at just a few hundred dollars.
Either way, it’s an investment in your peace of mind—and your future.
FAQs About What Is a Prenup
What is a prenup, in simple terms?
A prenup is a legal agreement a couple signs before marriage. It says who gets what if they split up, helping to avoid messy, expensive divorces.
Are prenups legally binding?
They can be, yes—as long as both partners sign voluntarily, share their finances honestly, and follow their state’s legal rules.
Can you get a prenup after marriage?
That would be a postnup! Postnuptial agreements work similarly but are signed after the wedding. Not all states enforce them, though.
Is a prenup worth it if I don’t have a lot of money?
Absolutely. A prenup isn’t just for the rich—it’s about protecting your future, your debt, and even things like pets or personal items.
How does a prenup help a business?
If you own a business, a prenup can ensure your company stays protected in case of divorce. That’s huge for entrepreneurs!
Final Thoughts
At the end of the day, asking what is a prenup is really asking how you can take care of your relationship and your future. It’s not about expecting the worst—it’s about planning for all possibilities.
So if you’re getting married soon, don’t just worry about flowers and table settings. Start the conversation about your financial future. And when you’re ready, take the Prenup Quiz or check out HelloPrenup to get started.
