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When you are convinced your marriage cannot be saved, before moving out or doing anything else, have legal separation documents drawn up by an attorney so you can best protect yourself in the upcoming trying and stressful times ahead. Once those are completed and signed, if you are the one moving out, below is a tip sheet to help guide you through this next phase of your divorce:
• If you are renting, have your name taken off the lease otherwise you may be held responsible for both the rent there and the rent in your new place.
• Remove your name from all of the utilities (cable, phone, trash, electric, water, etc.) or you could be held responsible for them as well.
• Forward your mail to a PO box, a close friend, or relative. Don’t let your mail accumulate at your old residence.
• Cancel or freeze all joint credit accounts because you are legally responsible for any debt that accrues. Both of you should get separate credit cards.
• Make sure to jot down all addresses, phone numbers, account numbers pertaining to things like mortgages, bank and credit card accounts, insurance policies, pensions, or any other financial arrangements you or your spouse might have or share.
• Take with you a copy of all tax records of the last 6 years.
• List what is in the safety deposit boxes and take photos for your records. Be sure to remove any personal items that are yours.
• Pack up anything you own that you will want later or things you’ll need to set up housekeeping at your new place. This includes medication, clothes, shoes, pictures, family heirlooms, mementos, school and medical records, dishes, phones, cleaning supplies, your computer, office supplies, towels, bedding, sports gear, and outdoor equipment. Remember that what you don’t take with you may not be accessible to you in the future. If there is a disputed item, it is best to leave it there, take a photograph, and make a note that this is one you would like in the final settlement.
