Divorce can be a long process. It can take years if you do not use mediation (hint, hint). So when the court finally enters the Final Judgment of Divorce, you might think that you’re finished. Not exactly.
- Effectuate any QDROs you received. Waiting can cause you to lose this money or create huge hassles.
- Change your address if you haven’t already moved out or done so. If you changed your name, you’ll need the court paperwork to change your name everywhere.
- Your employer
- Motor Vehicle Services (your driver’s license and car registration)
- Social Security Administration
- Banks (you should open a new account and not keep your old one if your former spouse had any access to it)
- Credit cards
- Student loans
- Brokerages/Investment Accounts
- Post Office
- IRS (use a special form the next time you file with them)
- Insurance companies
- Doctors
- Health Clubs
- Voter Registration
- Update your:
- Last Will and Testament
- Power-of-attorney
- Living Will/Healthcare Proxy
- Create a financial plan for your assets and retirement