7 Things to Do ASAP After Divorce~3 min read

After your divorce is final, there are several important steps you should take right away to protect your finances, update your legal and personal records, and focus on your next chapter. Acting quickly helps you stay organized and gives you peace of mind as you move forward.

1) Start with a Checklist

Before you begin making changes, create a checklist of everything you need to handle. This includes tasks such as closing joint accounts, updating identification if your name changed, revising your estate planning documents, and gathering important records. Having a written list helps you stay focused and prevents important details from being overlooked.

2) Update Your Financial Accounts

Start by reviewing all of your financial accounts, including checking, savings, credit cards, and investments. For joint accounts, contact your bank to remove your former spouse’s name or close the account entirely and open a new one in your name only. It is often safer to open new personal accounts, so you have full control and privacy. Update your direct deposits and automatic bill payments to connect with your new accounts. If you received property, support, or retirement funds through your divorce, confirm that those transfers have been completed correctly.

3) Update Identification and Legal Documents

If you changed your name, update your driver’s license, Social Security card, passport, and other forms of identification as soon as possible. Notify your employer, banks, insurance providers, and credit card companies of your new name. Consistent identification helps you avoid delays and confusion when handling financial or legal matters.

4) Review Your Estate Planning Documents

Once your divorce is final, your estate planning documents may no longer reflect your wishes. Review and update your will, trust, powers of attorney, and healthcare directives. You should also revise beneficiaries on life insurance policies, retirement plans, and pay-on-death accounts. This step helps make sure your assets are directed according to your current intentions.

5) Secure Important Records

Keep copies of your divorce decree, property settlement, and any child custody or support orders in a safe place. You may need them later to prove your rights or enforce an agreement. Consider storing digital copies in a secure, password-protected location for easy access.

6) Adjust Your Budget and Goals

Divorce often changes your financial situation. Review your income, expenses, and debts to create a new budget that fits your current lifestyle. If you received or owe support payments, make sure those are reflected accurately. You might also consider meeting with a financial planner to set new goals for saving, investing, and retirement.

7) Take Care of Yourself

Divorce is both a legal and emotional transition. Give yourself time to adjust. Surround yourself with supportive friends and family and consider counseling or a divorce support group if you need help processing this new stage of life.

Contact Springer & Lyle

If you need help finalizing loose ends after your divorce or want guidance on what to do next, the attorneys at Springer & Lyle can help. We offer clear, practical advice to protect your interests and give you confidence as you move forward. Contact Daniel Abasolo today at 940-387-0404 to schedule a consultation.

Springer & Lyle is located at 1807 Westminster, Denton, TX 76205.