Dating after a divorce can feel like stepping into a whole new world. Whether you were married for two years or two decades, re-entering the dating scene often comes with a mix of excitement and nerves. After all, you’re not just single, you’re single after marriage, which can bring unique emotional baggage and practical challenges. The good news is that you’re far from alone in wanting to reenter the dating scene after a divorce. In fact, research shows that about 36% of divorced or widowed Americans have tried a dating site or app, and new survey data shows over half of recent divorcees dabble in dating apps. This means there are plenty of dating apps for divorcees brimming with people who “get it.”
Still, it’s wise to pause and reflect before diving in. Are you truly ready to swipe right on someone new, or do you need a little more healing first? Below, we’ll help you assess your readiness, then introduce the 9 best dating apps for divorcees, and equip you with practical strategies on navigating the post-divorce dating landscape. By the end, you’ll see that finding love again is absolutely possible. It might be a bit of a rollercoaster, but with the right mindset and tools, you can enjoy the ride.
Dating After Divorce: Are You Ready To Take The Leap?
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Dating after divorce is a big step, and it’s important to make sure you’re truly ready before you take the leap. As marriage and family therapist Lauren Selfridge explains, “There are all different ways that people re-enter the dating world. Some people are ready for a relationship. Some people don’t know what they want.” To make sure you don’t fall into the category of the clueless lost in the labyrinth of the online dating world, it’s important to be sure whether you’re truly ready for it. Here are some questions for introspection that can help you come to an honest conclusion:
- Have you given yourself time to heal? According to therapist Alicia Muñoz, future relationships fare better if you take a few months or even a year to grieve the loss of your marriage before dating. She says, “Jumping in too soon is like mixing antibiotics with alcohol. It can lead to confusing, unpleasant emotional side effects.”
- Do you understand what went wrong in your marriage? Relationship counselor Margaret Paul, Ph.D., advises reflecting on your past. “Unless you understand what you did that contributed to the failure of the relationship, you will repeat the same behavior in the next,” she says. Being clear on the past helps you avoid old mistakes
- Can you talk about your divorce without intense emotion? Muñoz suggests you should be able to discuss your ex and divorce objectively and calmly, without raging or sobbing. If mentioning your ex still sends you into a tailspin or you’re dissociating and pretending it never happened, you may need more time
- Are you looking for love for the right reasons? Ask yourself, “Am I connecting to fill a hole in my life, or from a place of wholeness?”. If you’re just looking for a distraction from loneliness, you might not be ready yet. Dating should add to an already content life – not be a desperate attempt to fix an unhappy one
- Will you be okay if you stay single for a while? It’s worth considering the tough question posed by therapist Annie Wright: “What if you never meet The One?” This isn’t to be pessimistic, but to ensure you’re not dating out of panic. Can you envision a rich, fulfilling life even on your own? When you’re content solo, any new relationship will be icing on the cake, not a life raft
If you nodded along to these points and felt a sense of readiness, you might truly be prepared to date. If not, that’s okay too. It’s far better to wait than to jump in before you’re healed.
Related Reading: Life After Divorce – 15 Ways To Build It From Scratch And Start Afresh
12 Best Dating Apps for Divorcees
Dating after divorce often means deciding between two paths: Do you try a dedicated divorce dating site, or do you cast a wider net on a mainstream app? Specialized divorce dating websites like DivorcedPeopleMeet exist, but they tend to have smaller pools. In reality, many divorced singles find success on the same popular apps everyone else uses.
Mainstream apps have the advantage of sheer numbers, and most allow you to filter for what you want, effectively functioning as divorce-friendly spaces. It’s no surprise, then, that in a 2024 survey of UK divorcees, the top three dating apps for divorcees were Bumble, Tinder, and Hinge.
Based on these trends, we’ve handpicked 12 best dating apps for divorcees, combining those popular apps with huge user bases and diverse communities, and a couple of niche options tailored to divorced singles or single parents. Let’s find the platform that fits your new chapter.
1. Bumble — Empowered and thoughtful dating after divorce

Bumble often earns high marks among divorced women and men for its woman-friendly approach and overall quality. On Bumble, women must send the first message in heterosexual matches, which sets a respectful tone and tends to attract more serious daters. “Bumble is probably a safe place to start,” noted one user on divorce forum, r/Divorce, pointing out its better moderation and more mindful vibe.
The app’s user base is huge, yet it still feels controlled and kind, which can be a relief if you’re coming out of a painful divorce and craving a drama-free experience. Divorcees often appreciate that they can indicate their parental status and intentions upfront, avoiding awkward conversations down the line.
Features
- Women initiate conversations in opposite-sex matches, fostering a respectful, low-pressure environment
- Large, diverse user base. It’s one of the best dating apps for divorcees seeking a variety of matches
- Option to specify “Has kids” or “Don’t want kids” on your profile, and use Advanced Filters, with Bumble Premium, to screen for partners who are open to dating someone with children
- Built-in video call and voice note features, so you can vet matches and ensure safety before meeting in person
- Bumble BFF and Bumble Bizz modes, in case you want to widen your circle of friends or do some professional networking as you rebuild your life
Related Reading: Love Again? 10 Real Fears About Love After Divorce
Pricing
Plan Length | Monthly Price | Total Cost |
1 month | $29.99 | $29.99 |
3 months | $19.99/mo | $59.99 |
6 months | $16.99/mo | $99.99 |
Available on: iOS & Android
Bono Rating: 4.5/5 — Great for gaining confidence and meeting quality people, especially for women starting over.
2. Tinder — Huge pool with a casual vibe

Tinder is the household name of dating apps, and yes, it’s not just for 20-something hookups. Plenty of divorcees hop on Tinder out of curiosity or to “see what’s out there,” and its massive user base virtually guarantees you’ll find someone to chat with. In a recent survey, 36% of divorced respondents had tried Tinder, making it the second most popular choice after Bumble.
The app’s strength lies in sheer numbers and simplicity: you swipe, you match, you chat. For a divorced man or woman easing back into dating, the low-stakes swiping can actually be a confidence booster – it’s a way to practice flirting and meeting new people without pressure.
The downside is Tinder’s reputation: it is known as a hookup app, and multiple users lament that many folks there are just looking for something casual. Still, dating on Tinder is not a lost cause. Lots of relationships and even marriages start on it. If you go in knowing what to expect and prepared to sift through some frogs to find a prince/ss, Tinder can be a fun way to get back in the dating saddle.
Related Reading: Finding Love After Divorce – 9 Things To Be Mindful Of
Features
- An enormous user base, which increases your chances of finding matches in your area
- Simple swipe interface that’s easy to use, even if you’ve never been on dating apps before your marriage
- Profiles show basic info and up to 9 photos. You can note your relationship intentions and even your marital status in the latest updates
- Free to use core features. Paid Tinder Plus/Gold upgrades unlock perks like seeing who liked you, extra Super Likes, and more daily swipes
- Passport feature, with subscription, lets you swipe in other locations, which could be interesting if you’re traveling or considering a fresh start in a new city post-divorce
Pricing
Tier | Monthly Price | Notes |
Tinder Plus | $24.99 | Extra features like message before match, priority likes, and optional height filter |
Tinder Gold | $39.99 | Includes likes you’ve received, monthly Boosts |
Tinder Platinum | $39.99+ | Extra features like message before match, priority likes, and optional height filter |
Available on: iOS (App Store) & Android (Google Play)
Bono Rating: 4.0/5 — Best for casting a wide net. Huge selection, but be prepared to encounter a more casual crowd and some time wasters.
3. Hinge — Intentional dating geared toward relationships

Hinge’s tagline is: “the app designed to be deleted.” That can be a huge drawcard for many divorcees looking for a meaningful connection rather than a fling. Hinge users create detailed profiles by answering thoughtful prompts such as “Two truths and a lie” or “I know the best spot for…”, which provides built-in conversation starters and a fuller picture of each person.
The app also allows you to indicate preferences that matter, like whether you have children or want children, and what kind of relationship you seek. It has been cited as a consistent source of quality dates for men and women dating after a divorce, and it’s often recommended by experts for those restarting their love lives.
Divorcees often appreciate that Hinge isn’t a swipe-all-day app. You get a limited number of likes per day, encouraging you to be intentional. The vibe is friendly and less superficial, which can be refreshing if you’re coming from a long marriage and value real compatibility. Hinge facilitates genuine connections, even if every match turns out to be the match. It’s a great middle ground between overly casual and overly stodgy.
Related Reading: 6 Ways to Bounce Back After Divorce
Features
- Robust profiles with prompts and the ability to like or comment on specific answers or photos, which lead to more meaningful conversations than simple “hey” messages
- Many users on Hinge are seeking long-term relationships, not hookups. The community self-selects for people interested in real dating
- You can set dealbreaker preferences using filters for age, distance, having children, desire for children, etc., and mark any as “Dealbreakers” so Hinge only shows you those who fit
- Hinge has a “We Met” feature, allowing you to provide feedback if you actually go on a date, which helps their algorithm learn
- It also recently added video chat and voice recording options
- Rose feature, which is similar to a super-like, helps you show extra interest in someone special each week, which can help you stand out in a smaller dating pool
Pricing
Plan Length | Monthly Price | Total Cost |
1 month | $34.99 | $34.99 |
3 months | $21.66/mo | ~$64.99 |
6 months | $16.66/mo | ~$99.99 |
Available on: iOS & Android (apps)
Bono Rating: 4.4/5 — Ideal for divorcees seeking a fresh start with a serious relationship. Profiles and prompts make it easier to showcase who you are now, post-divorce.
4. Match — Old-school reliability with a serious-minded crowd

When it comes to online dating OGs, you can’t ignore Match.com. Many of us actually met our ex-spouses on Match “back in the day,” and despite being a pioneer, Match has kept up and remains one of the best dating sites for divorcees. Why? Its user base skews a bit older and more commitment-focused, which is exactly what many divorced singles want the second time around.
Match requires a paid subscription for messaging, which drastically cuts down on scammers and flaky accounts. You’re generally interacting with people who are willing to invest in finding a relationship. With millions of members, Match offers breadth, but its robust profiles and lengthy sign-up questionnaire encourage depth. You can specify a ton of details: your background, lifestyle, kids, preferences in a partner, etc. A divorcee can, for instance, set their status as divorced and even filter for others who have been married before if that’s important.
The downside is that Match isn’t as “quick” or trendy as swipe apps. Conversations may unfold more slowly, and yes, you have to pay for full use. But many find it worthwhile. If you’re a bit nervous about app culture, Match’s familiar approach might feel comforting.
Related Reading: 15 Tips On Dating A Divorced Man
Features
- Match lets you write a bio and answer prompts about your interests, hobbies, values, etc
- It also has specific sections for marital status, children, and even your feelings on topics like religion and politics
- You can actively search the database with filters like age, distance, keywords, “has kids,” which gives you more control than the purely algorithmic swiping of apps
- Match will curate suggested profiles for you, but you’re not limited to them – you can browse freely
- In some areas, Match hosts events or mixers for members. Post-divorce, attending a singles event might be a fun, low-pressure way to meet people offline
- Match has a verification option and actively removes fake profiles. It also offers a dating safety hotline for users. The focus on safety and authenticity can give peace of mind to someone coming out of a potentially hurtful divorce
Pricing
Plan Length | Standard Plan (per month) | Features Included |
1 month | ~$45.99 | Unlimited messaging, viewers, likes |
3 months | ~$31.99 | Messaging, profile boosts, full access |
6 months | ~$22.99 | Messaging, profile boosts, full access |
12 months | ~$18.99 | Lowest monthly rate |
Available on: iOS & Android (and usable via web browser)
Bono Rating: 4.3/5 — A legacy divorce dating site with a proven track record. Best for those seeking a serious relationship and okay with a subscription for quality matches.
5. eHarmony — Compatibility matching for long-term love

If you’re serious-serious about finding a forever partner after your divorce, eHarmony is definitely worth a look. This platform has been around 20+ years and is famed for its in-depth compatibility quiz and algorithm. When you sign up, be prepared to fill out a lengthy questionnaire about everything from your values to your habits, but trust that process, because eHarmony uses it to deliver highly compatible match suggestions.
In fact, eHarmony claims that 542 people marry every day in the U.S. because of matches on its site! For a divorced person, that’s an encouraging stat that speaks to the power of meeting someone truly well-suited to you. The user base on eHarmony tends to be a bit older, typically in the 30s-50 age range, and marriage-minded, which means many of your matches may be divorced or widowed themselves, or at least very understanding of your situation.
The pace on eHarmony is slower. You don’t swipe through dozens of faces. Instead, you receive a curated batch of matches each day. Some divorcees find this refreshing, as it prevents overwhelm and emphasizes quality over quantity. Keep in mind, eHarmony is a paid service. After a free trial, you’ll need a subscription to really communicate.
Related Reading: Surviving Divorce at 50: How To Rebuild Your Life
Features
- A 150+ question assessment covers personality traits and relationship preferences. It’s time-consuming, but it yields very detailed compatibility insights
- eHarmony used to enforce guided communication, like answering prompts with a match before free-form chatting. Now you can send custom messages, but there are prompts and questionnaires available if you want structured icebreakers
- The “What If” feature lets you see additional profiles outside the matches the platform curates based on your compatibility range
- You can have video calls within the app, which is great for long-distance matches or just to get a feel for someone “face to face” before meeting
- Profiles are verified, and you won’t encounter bots or blank profiles like on free apps. You also won’t get unsolicited explicit messages
Pricing
Plan Length | Approx Monthly Price | Total Cost |
6 months | ~$59.90 | ~$359.40 |
12 months | ~$35.90 | ~$430.80 |
24 months | ~$25.90 | ~$622.80 |
Available on: iOS, Android, and desktop website
Bono Rating: 4.5/5 — Excellent for divorcees seeking a deep, meaningful connection. The guided approach and success stats make it feel like a hopeful path to lasting love.
6. OkCupid — A free, fun space to be honest about your story

OkCupid has long been known for its quirky questions and inclusive atmosphere. It’s one of the best divorce dating sites if you want something free and low-pressure but still substantive. Upon joining, you’ll answer a series of random questions, ranging from serious: “Is jealousy healthy in a relationship?” to silly: “Do you like pineapple on pizza?”. The answers help calculate a match percentage with others.
For a divorcee, OkCupid offers lots of room to share their story. You can write multiple prompt responses and even blog-style paragraphs if you wish. It’s a good platform to be upfront that you’re divorced, and even to filter for others who’ve been married before.
The great thing is you can use OkCupid completely free. So if you’re freshly divorced and not sure about paying for a site yet, this is a solid starting point to dip your toes and practice chatting. The user base is quite large and globally spread, meaning if you live outside a big city, OkCupid might still have more options for you than some niche divorced dating website would.
Related Reading: 9 Important Tips For Moving On After Divorce – From An Expert
Features
- Choose prompts like “A fact about me that surprises people…” or “My most irrational fear” to craft a detailed profile that showcases your personality beyond the basics
- OkCupid’s algorithm shows a compatibility score with each person based on both of your answers to questions. It’s oddly reassuring when you find someone who’s a 90% match and also divorced!
- You can filter by a variety of preferences. OkC also has “profile tags” like Divorced, Single Parent, Liberal, Foodie, which can make it easier to identify common ground
- You can only message someone if you’ve both Liked each other, eliminating the old problem of unsolicited messages. Once you match, messaging is open-ended and unlimited.
- A-list subscription lets you see who liked you, browse invisibly, and refine filters further
Pricing
Free access available; two paid tiers add features and visibility.
Plan | 1 Month | 3 Months | 6 Months |
Basic | $19.99 | $14.99–19.99/mo | ~$9.99/mo |
Premium | $34.99 | ~$29.99/mo | ~$24.99/mo |
Available on: iOS, Android, Web
Bono Rating: 4.1/5 — A divorce-friendly dating app that’s budget-friendly and engaging
7. Stir — A new app dedicated to single parents

One of the toughest parts of dating after divorce, especially for divorced parents, is coordinating time. Between work, kids, and life’s responsibilities, swiping can feel like a luxury you don’t have. Stir was created to solve exactly that problem. Launched in 2022 by Match Group, Stir is a dating app designed exclusively for single parents. So, every user on this platform gets your struggles because they’re in the same boat. You’ll never have to explain that your kids come first. It’s a given.
Stir’s standout feature is called “Stir Time,” which lets you set your availability. For example, you’re free Tuesday evenings after 7, or every other weekend. The app then highlights matches with compatible schedules. This is a game-changer because, as one single mom lamented in a survey, “Between kids and my job, who has the time to date?”. Stir’s community, while smaller than giant apps, is growing and filled with divorced moms and dads who understand if you need to reschedule a date due to a sick child or can’t text during bedtime.
Related Reading: Divorce Is About Letting Go And Moving On
Features
- The app requires you to disclose your parental status. You can also share info about your kids, like how many and their ages, and match with others who have similar family setups
- Input the days or times you’re free, and Stir shows you people with overlapping availability. No more chatting for weeks only to realize you can never find a good meeting time!
- Stir asks some personality and values questions to help find matches you’d click with, beyond just “Are you a parent?”.
- Knowing everyone on the app is a single parent creates an unspoken understanding.
- Being under the Match umbrella, Stir benefits from the company’s experience in dating tech and safety. It has robust verification and customer support
Pricing
Membership | Length | Monthly Price | Total Cost |
Premium | 1 week | ~$19.99 | $19.99 |
Premium | 1 month | ~$29.99 | $29.99 |
Premium | 3 months | ~$20.00 | ~$59.99 |
Premium | 6 months | ~$12.00 | ~$71.99 |
Premium | 12 months | ~$17.99 | ~$215.88 |
Available on: iOS & Android
Bono Rating: 4.2/5 — One of the best dating apps for divorced parents juggling kids and romance. Fills a much-needed niche.
8. SilverSingles — For the 50+ divorcee ready to mingle

Divorce can happen at any age. If you’ve gone through a gray divorce in your 50s or 60s, you might prefer a community tailored to your stage of life. SilverSingles is exactly that: a dating app for adults 50+. Many members are divorced or widowed, so you’ll be in good company sharing life stories and understanding each other’s pasts.
SilverSingles uses a detailed personality test to help make quality matches. The vibe is mature, polite, and geared toward meaningful companionship. You won’t find the frenetic swiping culture here. Instead, you get a curated daily batch of profiles that fit your preferences. This can actually reduce overwhelm for someone returning to dating after a long hiatus.
Most SilverSingles users are dating after a divorce or the end of a long-term relationship, as the site itself notes. So, there’s a shared understanding of having a “past” and also a shared optimism about the future.
Related Reading: SilverSingles Review: Tailored Dating For 50+ Crowd
Features
- You won’t have to weed out significantly younger candidates. Everyone here is in your age bracket, making it easier to find someone with a compatible lifestyle and cultural touchstones
- Upon signup, you’ll fill out a questionnaire assessing traits and relationship priorities. SilverSingles then uses these to suggest highly compatible matches daily
- Designed with simplicity in mind, which is great if you’re not super tech-savvy. Profiles are clean and have prompts that encourage sharing about yourself and what you’re looking for
- All profiles are verified, and customer support is available to assist. Fewer scammers lurk here due to the niche focus and paid model
- You can use SilverSingles on your phone or computer. Many 50+ users appreciate having a full website to type on a big screen—a small convenience that can make the experience more enjoyable
Pricing
Plan Length | Monthly Price |
1 month | ~$54.95 |
3 months | ~$44.95 |
6 months | ~$34.95 |
12 months | ~$24.95 |
Available on: iOS, Android, and Web (SilverSingles.com)
Bono Rating: 4.2/5 — A welcoming platform for divorced seniors looking
9. DivorcedPeopleMeet — Niche site just for divorcees

As the name makes clear, DivorcedPeopleMeet is a dating website 100% devoted to divorced singles. It’s part of the People Media network, which runs other niche dating sites. On DivorcedPeopleMeet, you can create a profile highlighting your interests and what you’re looking for in a partner, then search or browse other divorcees. Because everyone on the site has been married before, there’s a baseline of empathy, and no one’s going to judge you for having a past.
While it’s not as large as mainstream apps, DPM (as some call it) has remained one of the largest niche communities for recent divorcees. Most users are in their 30s-50s, and many are divorced parents. The atmosphere is generally friendly and supportive. If you’re keen on meeting someone who has walked the divorce road too and thus truly understands where you’re coming from, this site is worth a shot as an adjunct to the bigger apps.
Related Reading: Best Mature Dating Apps And Sites For Singles Over 40s, 50s
Features
- Your profile can include details specific to divorce recovery, like how long you’ve been divorced, if you have an amicable relationship with your ex, and so on
- There are forums and chat features where members sometimes discuss topics related to divorce or single parenting. It adds a peer-support element to the dating experience
- Upload a short video or voice greeting to introduce yourself. This can make your profile stand out and help break the ice
- The design is straightforward and not as glossy as modern apps, but it’s easy to navigate. You search by age range, location, and some keywords or criteria, then you can send a preset message or write a custom message
- You can keep certain details hidden until you’re comfortable. Also, because it’s a smaller community, you can block users easily if you happen to run across someone you know or just don’t want to interact with
Pricing
Plan Length | Estimated Monthly Price |
1 month | ~$20–30 |
3–6 months | varies (often discounted) |
12+ months | varies / promotional only |
Available on: Web and Android app
Bono Rating: 4.0/5 — A supportive divorce dating website where everyone understands your journey.
10. Once — Slow‑dating app for mindful matchmaking

Once thrives on a slow-dating app for meaningful connections model, delivering just one carefully curated match per day. It’s ideal for someone coming out of a divorce who values quality over quantity. Its slow pace and emphasis on meaningful connections make it one of the ideal divorcee dating platforms. You’re not lost in a sea of profiles. Instead, you get one thoughtful connection designed around vibe and shared intent.
Related Reading: How To Find Love: 21 Practical and Expert-Backed Tips
Features
- One match per 24 hours, with conversation windows to encourage compatibility‑based dating
- “Purr Purr” icebreaker conversation game and music match integration via Spotify for deeper engagement
- “Crowns” virtual currency to boost likes or unlock more interaction
- Emphasis on personality and storytelling vs image-heavy browsing
Pricing
Plan | Duration | Price (USD) |
VIP | 1 month | $29.99/mo |
VIP | 3 months | $20.00/mo → $60 total |
VIP | 6 months | $15.00/mo → $90 total |
Available on: iOS, Android
Bono Rating: 4.0/5 — A thoughtful divorce dating site. Deliberate pacing makes it easier to show who you are, not just your past.
11. Jigsaw — Conversation‑first dating, slow, intentional

Jigsaw is built around the idea that bonds grow over words, not looks, making it an ideal platform for dating readiness post‑divorce. Profiles begin with your face completely hidden behind a jigsaw puzzle that only reveals itself gradually as you chat. It’s the kind of intentional matchmaking platform where curiosity leads, not judgment.
Related Reading: Dating With Intention: Meaning And Rules To Set You Up For Success
Features
- Puzzle face reveal that unfolds with each message sent, emphasizing connection over appearance
- Regular in-person singles events across U.S. cities, giving users a chance to meet people outside of a dating app
- Full profile verification for privacy-aware daters
- Text-driven interactions breed slower, more meaningful discovery
Pricing
Plan | Duration | Price (USD) |
Monthly | 1 month | $19.99 |
Quarterly | 3 months | $49.99 |
Annual | 12 months | $79.99 |
Available on: iOS, Android
Bono Rating: 4.1/5 — A standout for compatibility‑based matching for divorcees, particularly those valuing substance over swipes.
12. S’More — Anti‑superficial app for authentic connection

S’More, now integrated into Tawkify, was built as a privacy-aware dating platform focused on depth. Blurring profile photos until meaningful interaction occurs encourages divorced singles to look beyond physical appearance. It’s perfect for gray divorce dating or anyone wary of snap judgments.
Related Reading: Dating In Your 50s As A Woman: How To Make It Work
Features
- Photos blurred until you start chatting with a match
- Matching algorithm surfaces five refined suggestions daily
- Facial recognition tech combats catfishing and ensures profile authenticity
- A mindset shift from “appearances first” to “get to know me first”
Available on: iOS
Bono Rating: 3.8/5 — Great for intentional dating that empowers deeper connection and slower, more mindful engagement.
How To Navigate Dating After Divorce: 7 Things To Be Mindful Of
Jumping back into dating post-divorce isn’t just about downloading the right app – it’s also about mindset and strategy. Here are 7 tips to help you navigate this new chapter smartly and healthily:
1. Don’t rush the process of healing
It’s tempting to fill the void quickly, but take your time. Therapist Alicia Muñoz cautions, “Even if you’re glad to be divorced, there are still losses to grieve”. Dating with unresolved pain can lead to rebound heartbreak. Give yourself permission to heal first. There’s no deadline to start dating, despite what well-meaning friends or societal pressure might imply.
Related Reading: Should You Get A Divorce? Take This Divorce Checklist
2. Check your motives
Make sure you’re dating because you truly want to, not because you “should” or because you’re lonely and just seeking validation. Psychologist Jordana Jacobs suggests asking yourself, “Am I connecting to fill a hole in my life, or from a place of wholeness?”. If it’s the former, pause and focus on self-care. Date when you’re ready to share your life, not when you’re hoping someone will fix it.
3. Rebuild your self-worth
Divorce can deal a blow to anyone’s confidence. Take time to remind yourself of your strengths and lovable qualities outside of a partnership. Engage in hobbies, connect with friends, maybe even try new activities. “When you do date, the more authentically you present yourself, the more likely it is that your person can find you,” says coach Jordana Jacobs.
4. Set clear boundaries
Before you go on that first date, know your deal-breakers in a relationship and limits. What do you absolutely need in a partner, and what won’t you tolerate? Also, set personal boundaries: how fast do you want to get intimate? How much time can you realistically devote to dating, given your other commitments? Communicate your boundaries early. If someone pushes past them or doesn’t respect them, that’s a red flag. Move on!
Related Reading: The 7 Types Of Boundaries In Relationships For A Stronger Bond
5. Be honest with yourself and others
Honesty is crucial for a genuine emotional connection. You should absolutely be open about being divorced. It’s nothing to hide. However, you don’t need to dump your entire marriage story on the first date. Trust your timing.
“You’re your own best judge of how open to be with your heart, including when to disclose that you’ve been married before or have children,” says Lauren Selfridge. A wise way to strike a balance between being honest and not sharing too much too soon is to mention you’re divorced in your profile or early chats, but save the heavy details for when trust has been built. Authenticity is about balance – share the real you without treating a new date like a therapy session.
6. Prioritize safety
Online dating can feel odd after years of conventional dating, so stay cautious. Keep initial conversations on the app, meet in public places, and tell a friend or family member when and where you’re going. Also, watch out for red flags like love-bombing or anyone asking for money.
As clinical psychologist Dr. Harpreet Kaur Chattha notes, “People may take more liberties or cross limits more quickly online than they do in person, making it feel uncomfortable or threatening.” If someone makes you uneasy, even if you can’t articulate exactly why, trust that feeling. Your safety and comfort come first, always.
7. Trust your gut and pace yourself
After a long marriage, your intuition might feel rusty, but it’s still there. Use it. “We are unconsciously drawn to certain people in ways we can’t always describe,” Selfridge says, “Trust your interest in someone, and more importantly, how you feel when you’re with them.” If you feel happy, respected, and at ease, great! If something feels off or you feel dread or anxiety after interactions, pay attention. You also have every right to slow things down. You don’t have to rush into exclusivity or say yes to every date. Go at the pace that feels healthy for you.
FAQs
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but apps like SilverSingles, Stir, and Match often work well for people over 40. If you’re parenting, Stir caters specifically to divorced parents. If you’re looking for slower, thoughtful dating, try Once or Jigsaw. These two platforms are built for intentional connections.
Yes, most dating apps for divorcees offer free versions, like Bumble, Tinder, and OkCupid. These let you create a profile, browse matches, and message, with some limits. Premium versions unlock features like advanced filters, unlimited likes, or seeing who liked you.
It depends on your emotional readiness, not a fixed timeline. Ask yourself:
-Do I feel curious about meeting someone new?
-Have I processed the grief or anger from my last relationship?
-Can I talk about my past without spiraling into it?
Therapists often recommend healing before dating, but not waiting forever. Some people feel ready in a few months. Others take a year or more.
Apps like Stir and eHarmony stand out. Stir was designed specifically for single parents and offers tools to signal your parenting status upfront. Bumble and Hinge also let you indicate whether you have kids and what you’re looking for. It’s essential for divorced parents navigating new relationships.
Key Pointers
- If you’re emotionally ready after your divorce, with some reflection and healing done, it might be the right time to try dating again
- There are both mainstream and niche dating apps for divorcees that let you set your preferences clearly and find matches who understand your situation
- Slow-dating platforms like Once, Jigsaw, and S’More are great if you’re tired of swiping and want something more intentional after your divorce
- As you step into this new phase, it’s important to stay safe, rebuild your confidence, and approach online dating with clear boundaries and self-respect
Final Thoughts
Dating after a divorce is undeniably a leap of faith. You’re choosing to believe in connections and love again, armed with lessons from your past. There will be moments of doubt, maybe after a bad date or when loneliness hits on a random Sunday, but there will also be moments of joy and déjà vu butterflies you never thought you’d feel again. Remember that the best dating sites for divorcees are simply tools. You make the experience what it is. Approach these platforms as places of possibility, but manage your expectations and protect your well-being.
Above all, be patient and kind to yourself. Your worth was never defined by your marital status, and it isn’t defined by how quickly you find a new partner either. Use this time to explore, to heal further, to enjoy the freedom of getting to know new people.
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