Navigating the Post-Divorce Landscape in New York State: A Comprehensive Checklist
At J&G Law, we understand that navigating the complexities of life after divorce can be overwhelming. As you embark on this new chapter, it’s essential to address the legal, financial, and personal aspects of your changed circumstances. Our experienced attorneys and staff are dedicated to guiding you through the critical tasks that lie ahead, including the sale or transfer of the marital home and updating or creating your estate plan. To help you navigate the post-divorce landscape and build a strong foundation for the next phase of your life, here is a checklist of tasks to consider post-divorce:
Update Your Estate Plan:
- Revise or create your Last Will and Testament
- Revise or create your Living Will or Health Care Proxy
- Revise or create your Power of Attorney
- Discuss creating or updating a Revocable Trust with your attorney
Update Beneficiaries:
- Life insurance policies
- Retirement accounts (401(k), IRA, pension)
- Investment accounts
- Transfer on Death (TOD) accounts
Other Tasks (if applicable):
- Update your driver’s license and passport with your name change
- Update your emergency contacts
- Review and consider updating your tax withholdings (W-4)
- Update your voter registration and political party affiliation
- Update your insurance coverage (health, auto, home, life)
Financial and Property Updates:
- Liquidate marital property and/or effectuate a transfer of property
- Update property deeds and titles
- Close joint bank accounts and joint credit cards
- Meet with your accountant
- Prepare Domestic Relations Orders to divide retirement benefits
Family and Dependent Updates:
- Update your child’s health and life insurance beneficiaries (if applicable)
- Update your dependent care FSA (if applicable)
- Modify child support or access arrangements
- Petition Family Court to correct violations of the Judgment of Divorce
Digital and Social Media Updates:
- Update your social media accounts and privacy settings
- Update your online passwords and security questions
- Update your email accounts and email filters
This list is not exhaustive, and it’s recommended to consult with an attorney and financial advisor to ensure all necessary updates are made.
This is not to be considered legal advice. Please reach out to an attorney for information regarding your specific situation.
Michele P. Ellerin
is a Partner concentrating in matrimonial and family law.
She can be reached by phone at 845-764-9656 or by email.