Post-Divorce Checklist
Once your divorce has been finalized, there is still quite a bit left to do before you are able to start the next chapter in your life. To ensure that everything is complete, it can be useful to create a post-divorce checklist that includes a list of documents that need to be changed after your divorce. The sooner these post-divorce issues are resolved, the better for both you and your former spouse. Be sure, however, that all of your checklist items conform with the terms of your divorce judgment.
Post-Divorce Issues to Resolve
- Review the divorce judgment – It is a good idea to give your divorce judgment a once-over, which can help you and your former spouse create a post-divorce checklist to be sure you satisfy all the requirements of your divorce judgment. It is also advantageous to create a calendar for when any payments are due, such as child support or alimony (also known as maintenance).
- Cancel joint accounts – As part of your post-divorce financial checklist, you will want to cancel all of your joint accounts to avoid excessive charges or overdrafts on bank accounts and credit cards. If possible, it is recommended that you open your own separate credit card account before closing your joint accounts so that you can build your credit by making small purchases.
- Update your insurance – In most cases, couples use the same insurance company and agent. Because of this, you will need to notify your insurance company to obtain your own insurance coverage. Keep in mind that your previous coverage may have listed your spouse as a beneficiary, so you may need to update that information as well, that is, unless your divorce judgment states that your former spouse is a named beneficiary on your life insurance.
- Revise your estate plan – If you have not created a will, it is recommended that you do so. If you already have an estate plan in place, update your will, trusts, or power of attorney directives. This prevents your ex-spouse from obtaining all or part of your estate.
- Change names on titles and deeds – Follow the terms of the divorce judgment with regard to transferring ownership of real estate or vehicles.
- Consult an accountant – When it comes to taxes the year of a divorce, it can get a little complicated now that you are unable to file as married. Consult an accountant who can guide you through the process.
Rely on the Skilled Attorneys at Conniff & Keleher
Now that you have a list of documents to change after divorce as well as a post-divorce checklist, you can begin to finalize the last steps of your divorce. If you are in need of assistance, we invite you to set up a consultation with the family law attorneys at Conniff & Keleher.
