Checklist For Self-Protection (Divorce)

Here's a checklist of things you can (or should) do to protect yourself from credit damage once you've decided on getting a divorce (it is assumed that you and your spouse hold joint accounts together).

Immediately upon decision:

[ ] Open new checking account in your name only.

[ ] Change/open credit cards in your name only.

[ ] Open new credit card accounts in your name only.

[ ] Check all three of your credit reports for loan inquiries.

[ ] Check all three of your credit report for new mailing address(es).

[ ] Check your monthly credit statement(s) for new charges or advances.

For joint accounts that you don't plan on closing:

[ ] Confirm balances, payments, withdrawal activity, and charges.

[ ] Send a certified letter to the ‘Ex’ to confirm their agreement to pay bills on time.

[ ] Send a properly worded notification to ‘Ex’ regarding:

• [ ] Joint checking account, and/or
• [ ] Joint savings account

[ ] Confirm balance in all accounts.

[ ] Confirm change of title on properties:

• [ ] Vehicle(s)
• [ ] Real estate
• [ ] Vacation home
• [ ] 401 (K) account
• [ ] Tax account

Hopefully, this small list can provide you with the basic information you need to begin protecting yourself. Visit our website for more detailed information. You may also contact us there if you have special circumstances.