When your divorce is finalized, you’re probably be breathing a much-needed sigh of relief. Divorces can be extremely stressful, draining experiences––both mentally and physically. There are 14 Things To Do After Getting a Divorce in Wisconsin.
But before you kick off your shoes and get the rest you need, there are some important steps to take to effectuate all the provisions of the divorce decree. On top of this, you need to make sure the financial and legal aspects of your life are prepared for your newly single status.
Whether you’ve just been through the separation process or are making a long-term plan before beginning the process, we’ve created a go-to “checklist” you can use to make sure you’ve completed the necessary post-divorce steps in Wisconsin. While not every item we list may apply to you, others may require immediate action.
If your former spouse files for bankruptcy as a result of the separation, be sure to contact an experienced bankruptcy attorney as soon as possible.
14 Things To Do After Getting a Divorce in Wisconsin
- 1. Make several copies of your Judgment/Decree and Martial Settlement Agreement and keep them handy on file. There’s a good chance you’ll need them if you intend to transfer property, accounts, debts, or anything else.
- 2. Make sure all joint accounts you had with your former spouse are closed and distributed according to plan. In addition to this, if you have joint bank accounts, make sure there are no checks currently left outstanding.
- 3. File your Certificate of Divorce or Dissolution of Marriage with the Clerk’s Office.
- 4. If automobile ownership was affected and transfers need to be made, be sure to sort out the title, registration and new license plates to avoid legal confusion.
- 5. If real estate was involved in the Marital Settlement Agreement, get any changes or work completed on the deed immediately.
- 6. If child custody provisions are in place, buy a journal to record all visitation information and child support payments.
- 7. Prepare a new will and update any trust documents you’ve filed.
- 8. Change the beneficiaries listed on your life insurance, 401k, pensions, IRA accounts.
- 9. If your name was legally changed, you’ll need a new social security card, credit cards, driver’s license and passport.
- 10. Make a record of your former spouse’s Social Security number. Along with your children’s it may be needed to receive tax returns.
- 11. Get a new copy of your credit report to ensure all accounts you closed were indeed updated.
- 12. Change the name on any utility bills you receive to reflect the person now responsible for them.
- 13. If you’ll be receiving maintenance, you’ll need to find out if your tax withholding needs to be changed. Click here for a calculator that can tell you what it should currently be.
- 14. Set up a direct deposit or income withholding for spousal support payments whether you’ll be making them or receiving them.
This list by no means covers everyone’s post-divorce needs. It’s only meant to cover some of the most important things to consider after the final judgment has been handed down.
Are you planning your separation process out ahead of time? Check out our other post:
5 Things You Need To Do Before Filing For Divorce In Wisconsin
If you’re in need of an experienced family law attorney in Beloit, Wisconsin, click here for a free consultation with The Fitzgerald Law Firm.
At The Fitzgerald Law Firm your initial consultation is always free and you will always meet directly with one of our attorneys. We understand that appointments during traditional working hours may not be convenient for all, and thus we strive to be available for evening, weekend, and off-site appointments. Contact us today to schedule your free consultation.
Photo credit: David Machiavello
