Dividing property in a divorce can feel deeply personal—especially when it involves an inheritance. If you are going through a divorce in Pittsburgh, it is natural to worry about whether you will be able to keep what was meant just for you. The answer depends on how you handled the inheritance during the marriage.
Pennsylvania views inheritance as separate property
In Pennsylvania, courts generally treat inherited property as separate from marital property. If you receive an inheritance—either before or during the marriage—it usually belongs to you alone. The court does not automatically include it in the marital estate.
How inheritance can become marital property
Even though inheritance starts as separate property, your actions can turn it into marital property. This often happens when you combine your inheritance with jointly owned assets. For example:
- You deposit inherited money into a joint account.
- You use inheritance funds to renovate a shared home.
- You add your spouse’s name to the title of inherited property.
In these cases, the court may decide that the inheritance has become part of the marital estate.
Increases in value may be shared
Even if you keep an inheritance separate, its increase in value during the marriage might count as marital property. If you inherit a house and its value increases, the court may divide the increase. This becomes more likely if both of you contribute to the home’s upkeep or improvement.
Clear records help protect your inheritance
To protect your inheritance, you should keep clear records. Save documents that show when and how you received it. Keep inherited funds in separate accounts. Avoid adding your spouse’s name to any inherited property. These steps help prove that the inheritance still belongs to you.
You do not have to go through this alone
Divorce already brings a heavy emotional load. Worrying about your inheritance can make things even harder. But you do not have to face it alone. An experienced attorney can explain how local courts view inherited assets and help you avoid mistakes that could cost you. With the right legal guidance, you can protect what is yours and move forward with clarity and a sense of peace.