First steps before you file

The weeks before filing set up everything after it. These steps are ordinary, legal and sensible. None of them should be done to hide anything, because hiding assets backfires badly in court.

Protect your privacy

• Change passwords on your email, phone, cloud storage and banking. Turn on two-factor sign in.
• Check shared devices, family location sharing and saved browser passwords.
• Use a private email address for anything about the divorce.

Protect your finances

• Open a bank account in your own name and route your pay there once you file, if your state allows it before filing.
• Pull your free credit reports so you know every joint account and card.
• Make copies of recent statements for every account. See our list of documents to gather.
• Do not move, spend or hide large sums. Many states put automatic orders in place once a case is filed that freeze big changes.

Protect your options

• Check your state's residency rule. Filing too early can get a case dismissed.
• If you have children, keep your routines steady and avoid moving them without an agreement.
• Write down a simple timeline of your marriage: dates of marriage, separation, big purchases, inheritances and moves.

If you fear for your safety, skip ahead to our safety guide. Some steps above should happen in a different order when someone is at risk.

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.