The Short Form Report provides a comprehensive comparative overview of each party’s income and living expenses, measured against the only statutory living expenses guidelines in the State. The living expenses baseline is not intended to dictate the cost of living for either party; rather, it serves as a reference point to compare each party’s new household costs on a like-for-like basis. The comparisons are conducted on a percentage basis relative to the baseline, indicating whether one party is a certain percentage above or below the baseline. This comparison is made across three different income scenarios:

1. Each party retains only their own income.
2. Where the income of both parties is pooled and split equally between the two parties (i.e. 50:50).
3. The split of pooled income required for each party to be at the same percentage above or below the living expenses baseline.

The Short Form Report captures gross income, tax and other deductions, new (post-separation) household composition, home and car insurance, childcare (if relevant), and any special circumstance costs that each party may incur.

The data inputted into the Short Form Report by either or both parties, or their lawyers, is not verified as part of the Short Form Report process. It is advisable for the parties and/or their lawyers to maintain copies of the supporting documentation for each entry in the data capture form for the Short Form Report.

Below is a snapshot of what to expect from Sections 3 and 4 of the Short Form Report:

Section 3: Income and Expenditure Snapshot

Section 4: Scenario Analysis – Post-Separation Outcomes

Scenario 1: Each Party Retains Own Income

Scenario 2: Combined Income Pooled and 50:50 Income Split

Scenario 3: Income Adjustment Required to Achieve Equal Percentage Above/Below the Reasonable Living Expenses Baseline

In this example, the effects of the three income splitting models considered in the Short Form Report are clearly illustrated. The relevant figures to consider in each income splitting model are found in the “% Surplus/Deficit” line at the end of each section.

In the example of the Short Form Report financials shown above, in each of the three income splitting scenarios, one or both parties will be required to live below Insolvency Service of Ireland (“ISI”) Reasonable Living Expenses Guidelines (“RLEs”), and in such a case, the relevant party or both parties, will be advised to consult with a Personal Insolvency Practitioner (“PIP”) authorized and regulated by the ISI for Personal Insolvency advice.

The Short Form Report has a fixed cost of €400.00 plus VAT and can be updated twice (three times in total) at no extra charge. The ability to update the data for the Short Form Report may be necessary

The Long Form Report is typically required in scenarios involving multiple property assets, significant debts, or low-income levels where income splitting must be considered in the context of future asset ownership. This report is presented as an expert witness report, with all financials verified by the Equitable Divorce Team in accordance with the Insolvency Service of Ireland’s Debt Solutions Protocol.

The Long Form Report is priced on a case-by-case basis. The initial step involves completing the Short Form Report, after which you or your legal representatives should contact us to discuss the specific financial issues and tailored requirements of your case. 

If it is determined that a Long Form Report is necessary, we will request the relevant supporting documentation, assess the requirements, and provide a quotation for the work before any additional costs are incurred. Should you proceed with commissioning a Long Form Report, the cost of the Short Form Report will be credited against the cost of the Long Form Report.

No. While our platform provides accurate financial assessments based on statutory guidelines, it does not constitute legal or financial advice. We strongly recommend users consult with a qualified solicitor for legal matters relating to separation or divorce.

Our system uses the Insolvency Service of Ireland’s (ISI) Reasonable Living Expenses guidelines, which are the only statutory guidelines of their kind in Ireland. These standards ensure transparency and fairness in evaluating each party’s income, assets, and liabilities.