After the decree: the untangling checklist

Most post-divorce problems come from tasks that were agreed but never done. Work through these in the first 90 days.

Legal and identity

• Order several certified copies of your decree.
• If you are changing your name, update Social Security first, then your driver license, passport, banks and employer.
• Update your will, powers of attorney and health care directives.

Beneficiaries

Change beneficiaries on life insurance, retirement accounts and bank accounts. Some states cancel an ex-spouse as beneficiary automatically for some assets, but workplace plans follow their own documents, so change them yourself.

Property and debts

• Record new deeds and retitle vehicles.
• Close or refinance joint accounts and cards.
• Send retirement orders to each plan administrator and follow up until the split is done.

Insurance

• Arrange your own health coverage. If you were covered on your spouse's workplace plan, COBRA usually lets you stay on for up to 36 months if you notify the plan within 60 days.
• Get your own auto and home or renter's insurance.

Credit and money

• Check your credit report three months after closing joint accounts.
• Set up support payments through your state's disbursement unit if ordered.
• Build a new monthly budget for one household.

The Untangle screen turns this list into tasks with letters ready to send.

This guide is general information, not legal advice. Laws differ by state and change over time. For advice about your situation, talk to a licensed attorney in your state.