Rising numbers of divorcees using equity release

It’s a figure which has been gradually increasing over the last few years and is predicted to rise further following the introduction of no-fault divorces on 6 April 2022.

Key said, in 2021 figures showed 12% of people who released equity from their home were divorced – a 1% increase on 2020.

Of the divorcees who took out equity release nearly three quarters (72%) were female, up from 69% in 2020, compared to just 28% of men in 2021, down by 2% on on 2020 (30%).

The analysis also found divorced women were more likely to use equity release for gifting (16%) and home improvements (41%) than their male counterparts (9% and 31% respectively).

Meanwhile, divorced men (70%) used more of their housing equity for debt repayment than couples (42%) and divorced women (56%).

Will Hale, CEO at Key Later Life Finance, said: “Over the last few years, we have seen an increase in divorcees using equity release with more women than men choosing to access their housing equity.

“With the most recent ONS data highlighting that divorce amongst those aged over 65 has increased by 46% year on year and no-fault divorces now a reality, the number of divorcees who consider this option is only likely to increase.

“Women in particular appear to be keen to access their housing equity – potentially as they received the family home rather than pension assets and other savings or investments as part of a divorce settlement.

“Digging into the details, more women are driven by the desire to gift and age proof their home while more men focus on debt repayment.

“Equity release is just one option some are turning towards, to help fund their later life following a change in circumstance such as divorce but there are a variety of other considerations.  Speaking to a specialist financial adviser will help people to better understand what these options are and whether they may be right for their them.”