The first step people wanting to keep separate assets separate is to know the amount of separate property that was originally deposited into the account. As long as they can prove the exact amount it can remain separate. However, it can become complicated when married couples use an account with comingled money to purchase various things.

There are different approaches that could be used. One is that marital property comes out first. So, the item purchased would be considered marital until marital money in the account is exhausted. This is the most common method of accounting. Sometimes separate property can be counted first though based on the circumstances. Couples could also use a pro rata approach. Another method is that the household expenses and bills will use marital money and not separate property so any money spent from the account on those items will not affect the separate property. Courts may also try to determine the intent of the parties.

It is not uncommon for couples in Texas to comingle separate and marital property during a marriage. During a divorce though this can create complications and consulting with experienced attorneys could be beneficial.