If you’ve been wondering how to get a prenup, you’re not alone. Many couples are curious about prenuptial agreements but aren’t sure where to start. The good news? Getting a prenup doesn’t have to be complicated, intimidating, or expensive. Whether you’re looking for step-by-step guidance, wondering how much it costs to get a prenup, or just trying to understand the process, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know.
How to Get a Prenup Agreement
A prenuptial agreement (or “prenup”) is a legal contract made between two people before marriage that sets out how you’ll handle finances, property, and debt during your relationship, and if your relationship ends. The process to get a prenup can vary depending on your needs, your province or territory, and the complexity of your situation.
How to Obtain a Prenup Easily
The easiest way to obtain a prenup is to:
- Talk with your partner early – Bring it up well before the wedding. This keeps the conversation low-pressure.
- Agree on your main terms – Decide what you want to include, such as how to handle existing assets, debt, inheritances, or business ownership.
- Choose your method – You can work with lawyers in your area or use an online platform like Jointly.
- Make sure it’s legally valid – In Canada, this usually means it’s in writing, signed by both parties, and witnessed.
- Consider independent legal advice – While not always mandatory, it can help ensure fairness and enforceability.
If your situation is straightforward, an online service like Jointly can make getting a prenup quick, affordable, and easy to understand.
How to Go About Getting a Prenup Step-by-Step
Here’s a simple step-by-step approach:
- Start the conversation – The earlier, the better.
- Decide what matters to you – List your assets, debts, and any special considerations.
- Gather documentation – Bank statements, property deeds, business records, etc.
- Draft the agreement – Either with a lawyer or using Jointly’s lawyer built platform.
- Review and revise – Both of you should be comfortable with the terms.
- Sign and witness – Make sure the formalities in your province are followed. In some provinces, that includes each partner getting independent legal advice.
How Much Does It Cost to Get a Prenup?
Costs can vary widely depending on how you choose to create your agreement.
How Much to Get a Prenup with a Lawyer
If you work with separate lawyers from start to finish, you can expect to pay anywhere from $1,500 to $5,000+ per person in Canada, depending on complexity. This can be the right choice if you have a high net worth, complex assets, or anticipate lengthy negotiations.
How Much Does Getting a Prenup Cost on Average?
For most couples with straightforward finances, the average cost of getting a prenup in Canada is around $3,000 – $5,000 total if you use traditional legal advice.
How Much Is It to Get a Prenup Online?
Jointly offers prenups for $379, a fraction of traditional legal fees, while still giving you access to legal information and the ability to seek independent legal advice.
How to Make a Prenup Yourself
Some couples choose to draft their own prenup. While you can do this, you should be aware of the legal requirements to make it enforceable.
How to Make a Prenup Without Legal Assistance
You can write down your terms yourselves, but remember: for it to be valid, it must be in writing, signed, and witnessed. It is important that your prenup is written in precise and clear language. If your prenup can be misinterpreted, it may not hold up later. In many cases, courts are more likely to uphold agreements where each person had the opportunity to seek legal advice.
How to Make Prenup Templates Work for You
If you use a template, make sure it’s Canadian-specific and tailored to your province or territory. Avoid free, generic U.S.-based downloads. Laws differ significantly, and the wrong template could leave you unprotected. Contested divorces can cost tens of thousands of dollars in legal fees. Using Jointly’s lawyer-built platform to create a prenup costs only $379.
When Should You Get a Prenup?
Timing matters when it comes to prenuptial agreements.
How to Get a Prenup Before Marriage
Ideally, you’ll start the process at least a few months before the wedding. This ensures you have time to discuss terms, seek advice, and avoid any claim that the agreement was rushed or signed under pressure.
How to Get a Prenup After Marriage
If you’re already married, you can still create a similar agreement – it’s called a postnuptial agreement (or “marriage contract” in some provinces). The process is almost identical to getting a prenup before marriage, but you’re signing it after the wedding. Aside from the timing, prenups and marriage agreements are very similar documents that accomplish the same things.
Finding the Right Support for Your Prenup
How Jointly Helps Couples Create Their Prenup
At Jointly, we believe relationship agreements should be accessible, understandable, and affordable. Our platform guides you through the process step-by-step, using plain language instead of legal jargon. You can create your prenup online, on your own time, for a fraction of the traditional cost.
If you’re wondering how to get a prenup without stress, confusion, or a huge bill, Jointly is here to help you protect your future and focus on building your life together. Get started today.
Final Thought: A prenup isn’t about expecting the worst – it’s about building trust, clarity, and confidence in your relationship. The earlier you start the conversation and the more transparent you are, the smoother the process will be.
- How Do I Get a Prenup? - August 14, 2025
