A Post-Divorce Checklist

After weeks, months, or even years of what feels like the hardest time of your life: it’s over. You’re finally divorced and now you can kick back and relax, right? Not quite. After your divorced is finalized, before you can settle in you have to tie up those loose ends and actually complete the process. Here’s a general list to guide you through the next steps:

1. Review the Terms of your Divorce.

Make sure you review the terms your Divorce Agreement or Judgment. Take note of specific obligations and timelines. These are extremely important to familiarize yourself with in moving forward. If you have regular alimony or child support payments, consider making them automatic transfers. Divide your property, update insurances, etc. Make sure that you are timely meeting those deadlines, or you could end up back in Court.

    2.  Change your Passwords
Netflix, Facebook, Email, Bank Accounts, Retirement Accounts, the list goes on. In this post-pandemic world, we rely more and more on online accounts and resources. The fastest way to access these accounts is, obviously, using your passwords. I think we have all heard stories of people finding out that their ex still has access and is using their Netflix account, then they change the Netflix password right before their ex’s favorite show premiers. However, failure to change passwords to your more important accounts can lead to more serious consequences. Your ex’s unauthorized access to your bank accounts, phone records, etc. can be an invasion of privacy and in some cases can be outright dangerous. Make sure that you take the time to change all of your old passwords, even if you are unsure that the other person knows or has access to them.

   3.  Update your Privacy Settings
Now that you’ve changed your passwords, make sure that your online accounts are secure by changing your privacy settings. Many accounts can be accessed through social security numbers or personal questions for gaining access. If you filed joint tax returns, your ex has your social security number, they probably also know your mother’s maiden name and the name of your first pet. Change your settings to make sure you are the only one with access to your information.

   4.  Change your Name
If you were granted a name change as part of the Judgment of Divorce, make sure that you update all of your accounts, get your new Social Security card, update your license and let your employer know that your name is legally changed.

   5.  Bank Accounts and Credit Cards
Make sure that all of the joint accounts, including bank accounts and credit cards, are closed in accordance with the terms of the divorce. If necessary, establish your own private bank account.

   6.  Update your Beneficiaries
Make sure that your beneficiaries are updated on your bank accounts, retirement accounts, life insurance policies, etc. You should also take time to update your Last Will and Testament and any other estate planning that you have done.
 
These are just a few of the steps you should take after your divorce is finalized. If you have any questions about this topic or divorce in general, or if you need assistance adjusting the terms of your Judgment of Divorce, reach out to us at HunnellLaw.com/contact to speak to an attorney.

Contact Us