What Do I Do if I Think My Spouse Is Hiding Assets During Divorce?

 Posted on November 27, 2025 in Property Division

In Illinois, both spouses are required to disclose all assets, debts, and income sources during the divorce process. Hiding assets can lead to an unfair settlement and even legal consequences. If you suspect this is happening, you should seek help from an experienced Chicago, IL divorce lawyer who understands complex financial issues. At The Law Office of George J. Skuros, we can protect your rights and help uncover the truth so that the property division part of your divorce decree is fair.

Why Would a Spouse Try to Hide Assets During Divorce?

Your spouse could be hiding assets during divorce for a number of reasons. Some do it to reduce how much they have to share, while others act out of resentment or a desire for control. There are also many different ways to do it. They may move money into separate accounts or transfer property to family members. Some even delay receiving income or bonuses until after the divorce is final.

Under 750 ILCS 5/501, both parties are required to provide complete and accurate financial disclosures during the divorce process. Trying to conceal property violates this duty. If your spouse is doing it, they could face financial penalties. The court may even change how it divides property to accommodate you.

What Are the Signs My Spouse Might Be Hiding Money or Property?

Common red flags to look for if you have concerns about hidden assets include:

• Bank transfers or withdrawals that do not have clear explanations

• Large cash purchases or valuable items that suddenly go missing

• Tax forms, payment records, or bank statements that are difficult to find

• Recently opened or undisclosed financial or investment accounts

• A sudden drop in business profits without a clear cause

Documenting these details can help your lawyer and any financial experts working on your case track down missing funds.

How Can My Attorney Help Uncover Hidden Assets?

An experienced divorce lawyer knows how to locate concealed property and income. Your attorney can use discovery tools, such as subpoenas, depositions, and formal requests for records. This allows them to obtain documents directly from banks, employers, and other institutions.

In complex cases, your lawyer may work with forensic accountants or financial investigators who specialize in tracing funds through multiple accounts. They can review tax returns, look for unreported income, and analyze credit card or business transactions. If your spouse owns a company, you can even get financial statements or order a business valuation to make sure everything is there.

What Happens If Hidden Assets Are Found in an Illinois Divorce?

If a court determines that your spouse intentionally hid assets, your spouse will be penalized. Judges have the authority to reopen a divorce settlement and redistribute property if fraud is discovered. This is supported by 735 ILCS 5/2-1401, which allows a court to change a judgment based on deception or newly discovered evidence.

Your spouse may lose their share of the hidden assets and could even be ordered to pay your legal fees. In some cases, criminal charges may apply if the concealment involved forgery or fraud.

Discovering hidden assets can also strengthen your position in other areas of the divorce, such as spousal maintenance or child support. Courts look closely at each party’s honesty and cooperation when determining what is fair.

Schedule a Free Consultation With a Cook County, IL Divorce Attorney

At The Law Office of George J. Skuros, we focus on helping clients fully understand the legal issues involved so they know what to expect and can make informed decisions. However, we will always fight for the best possible outcome in every case. Our attorneys are familiar with using legal tools to trace missing funds, freeze accounts, and hold dishonest spouses accountable. Call 312-884-1222 today to schedule your free consultation with our Chicago, IL divorce lawyers.