Divorce · Financial guide

What is the financial checklist for divorce?

Quick answer

The critical financial steps in divorce: (1) Secure copies of all financial documents — tax returns, bank statements, retirement accounts, property deeds.

60 daysInsurance decision deadline
10 stepsCritical financial actions
$15K-$30KAvg legal cost range
6-18 moTypical timeline

The full picture

The critical financial steps in divorce: (1) Secure copies of all financial documents — tax returns, bank statements, retirement accounts, property deeds. (2) Open individual bank and credit accounts. (3) Assess your credit score independently.

(4) Calculate your post-divorce budget based on single income. (5) Understand your state’s divorce laws (equitable distribution vs. community property).

(6) Get 3 mediation quotes before hiring an attorney. (7) Evaluate COBRA vs. marketplace insurance within 60 days.

(8) File a QDRO for retirement division. (9) Update beneficiaries on all accounts. (10) Create a new estate plan..

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