Steps To Take After A Pennsylvania Divorce

At the close of every divorce process, our Pittsburgh Divorce Lawyers often have to remind our clients that just because the papers have been filed, the process isn’t over. There are still a few more things that should be done. Some people may not want to think about their divorce once all the court papers are finalized, but there are still various other things that need to be done in order to protect yourself and your children in the future. In today’s blog, your Western PA Divorce Lawyers discuss ten things everyone should do after a Pennsylvania divorce.

1. Plan for your future with a Will and/or Living Trust. First, it is crucial to make sure that any existing Will or Trust that includes your former spouse is rescinded. Secondly, it’s important to make sure you establish a new end of life plan, especially if you have children.
2. Cancel All Joint Accounts – Now is the time to terminate any accounts held jointly with your former spouse, and open new accounts in your name.
3. Update Your Beneficiary Designations – Update your beneficiary designations on life insurance policies, IRAs, 401(k) and other plans to make sure your ex-spouse is no longer included on these documents.
4. Manage Your Medical Insurance Coverage – If you were previously covered under your spouse’s medical insurance, you need to either file for COBRA coverage or secure private insurance.
5. Consider Life Insurance – Consider buying a policy of your own to ensure that your children will be provided for in case something happens to you.
6. Re-titling the Cars and Updating Insurance – It’s important to change all titles to reflect the proper ownership and update any insurance policies to reflect any changes in ownership, drivers or change addresses.
7. Deal With Joint Debt – After a divorce any joint debt needs to be reworked. Now is the time to refinance and/or remove your name from any debt that was previously jointly held. These debts commonly include leases, mortgages, and lines of credit.
8. Change Your Passwords – Change your online passwords to something only you know.
9. Change Your Address – If the marital home was sold or it was awarded to the other spouse as part of equitable distribution, make sure to update your address with all service providers, your licenses and especially creditors.
10. Change Your Name – For women who have chosen to change their names back after a divorce, you must communicate the corresponding change with all creditors and government agencies. Be sure to change your name on your license, passport, social security card, and other official documents.

If you are facing a Pennsylvania divorce, contact our team of PA Divorce Lawyers at Taybron Law Firm, LLC. Our team of lawyers will provide you with the legal guidance necessary to help you before, during, and after your Pennsylvania divorce. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.