Divorce help
Get & Stay Organized
There are quite a number of things you should have readily accessible when going through a divorce. We compiled a general list for everyone, but like always, consult your lawyer for any specifics.
Divorce, though emotionally challenging for some, often requires a detailed and organized approach when it comes to paperwork. If you find yourself at the crossroads of ending a marriage, understanding the essential documents and materials needed for filing divorce can make the process smoother for both sides. Let’s take a closer look at the key items you’ll need to gather. Feel free to use this resource as a checklist to help you get organized.
- Proof of identity
- Driver’s license
- Passport
- Marriage certificate
- Financial records
- Income statements (pay stubs, tax returns, W-2 and 1099 forms)
- Asset documentation (property deeds, car titles, etc.)
- Debt statements (credit card statements, loan agreements, mortgage information)
- Retirement information (401(k), IRA, and pension statements
- Several months of bank statements for all joint and individual accounts.
- Insurance policies
- Health
- Life
- Car
- Home
- Child custody documents
- School records
- Healthcare records
- Any existing custody agreements
- A monthly budget to help determine spousal support or alimony payments
Those are just a few general items that you should work on having at the ready to make filing less of a hassle than it needs to be. It’s also important to point out that requirements differ by jurisdiction, so it’s best to consult with a lawyer to get a detailed list of everything you might need.
The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual.