One way to bring at least a small measure of order to the often chaotic process of divorce is to properly prepare yourself for the financial transition. A divorce attorney and Certified Divorce Financial Analysts can help guide you through this confusing time, but you will do yourself a big favor by gathering the necessary information and staying organized. Keeping a folder of the vital information listed below—whether electronically or in paper form—should make navigating all the required paperwork and decision-making less stressful.
Keep copies of these documents:
Tax returns from the past five years
List of items in safe deposit boxes or storage
Proof of both spouses’ income, such as W-2 or 1099 forms
Statements from checking and savings account
Statements from investment accounts
Real estate and mortgage records
Home equity loan statements
Most recent property tax bill
Promissory notes
All insurance policies
Complete records for any businesses owned
Titles to any vehicles
Three most recent credit card statements
Statements for retirement accounts
Health insurance policies
List of personal property owned
Most recent property tax bill
A current household spending plan
Account statements for student loans
Account statements for personal loans
Most recent pay stubs for both spouses
Medical savings account information
Statement on the mileage and condition for all vehicles
Send name/address changes to:
Financial institution(s)
Lenders
Home, life, health, auto insurance provider(s)
Accountant/Tax professional
Credit card companies
Investment account provider
DMV
IRS
Unemployment office
State tax board
Social Security Administration
Pension/retirement plans
Student loan providers
Mortgage company
Online business accounts
Credit bureaus
Titles or deeds that will be in your name
Veterans affairs
Other tips:
Change passwords for any accounts you will be taking over.
Reexamine your needs for all insurance policies.
Change beneficiaries for retirement, investment and insurance accounts
Update your Will
