Finally, the
divorce papers have been signed and the judgment has been entered. Now you can
start rebuilding your life after the arduous ordeal.
However, there is still some work remaining. Even after the divorce is
finalized, there are certain steps that you are required to take to fulfill
the provisions of the divorce decree and ensure your newly single status
reflects the financial and legal aspects of your life.
The following is a post-divorce checklist to which highlight what remains
to be done:
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Read through your divorce decree and create your own list – Whether you read it once or never at all, you must read your divorce
decree to understand the details of each provision. Then create a list
of items that must be done immediately and a calendar to ensure certain
deadlines are met, such as alimony and child support payments.
-
Update your health insurance – If your ex-spouse is currently under your in your health insurance
plan, you must have his/her name removed. If you are under your ex-spouse’s
health insurance plan, you must obtain your own.
-
Change your beneficiary designations – If your ex-spouse is currently listed as a beneficiary in your
life insurance policies and 401(k)s, you must have his/her name removed.
When it comes to retirement benefits, you must obtain a special order
called a Qualified Domestic Relations Order (QDRO) to be entered and have
it drafted by your attorney. You will also need to reassess your retirement
goals and ensure you’re on track to retire as planned.
-
Update your will and trusts – If you already have a will, then you must contact your lawyer and
make some changes. If you have a trust, you must revise some of the provisions
and cater them to your new situation.
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Close any joint bank accounts – You must close any joint accounts and open a new account in your
name. Additionally, change your address on your bank accounts and checks.
-
Update your deeds and titles – Change the titles to your motor vehicles to reflect the ownership
as established in the divorce decree. Notify your auto insurer of any
changes in drivers, ownership, and addresses associated with the motor
vehicles. Remove your ex-spouse’s name from your lease or mortgage.
-
Change your name – If you wish to go by your maiden name again, you need to visit your local
Social Security office to have it changed and receive a new SSD card.
Furthermore, you must visit the DMV and have your name changed on your
driver’s license.
For more information,
contact our
Daytona Beach family law attorney at
Law Offices of Robert Stepniak today.