Few things in this world are as life-altering as divorce. In many cases, divorce is unexpected and comes after a long-fought battle. The divorce process can be physically, emotionally, and financially draining for all parties involved. The most important thing to remember is that there is life after divorce.
After you settle the legalities and the emotional transition starts, you need to deal with some practical issues. The transition from a partnership to life as a single individual can be overwhelming. It’s natural to feel a bit lost and disoriented.
You have to make adjustments on everything from name changes to single-parent car insurance, and you should know what those areas are before you walk too far into this new life season.
Some Divorce Legalities
The first consideration in any divorce proceeding is what type of divorce to file. The type of divorce will determine the type of legal processes, the length of the proceedings, and the total cost. The more costly and time-consuming divorce is a contested divorce.
A contested divorce is necessary when a couple cannot come to an agreement on major issues. These major issues can and do include child custody, spousal support, or the division of property and assets.
In most cases, a contested divorce leads to a trial where a judge will make a final determination about the major issues the couple is unable to agree on. Once the trial dust settles, the work has just begun.
Ownership Changes After Divorce
After a divorce is settled, there are sure to be some changes in property ownership. You need to notify all entities of a divorce and the various changes that result.
First, you should notify the department of motor vehicles in your area. You will need to make a change to the title of any vehicle that is found to be your property only. You will also need to transfer the title of any vehicle to your name only. This ensures that you have no long-term issues or delays down the line.
You will also need to contact any financial entities where you hold any debt or loans. A divorce results in a division of payment responsibility, and you may be released from some repayment responsibilities. In this case, you should contact any institution and remove your name from the remaining debt or loan.
The divorce certificate will outline the specifics of any settlement or judge’s decision, but it is important that these matters are taken care of. Any delay in these changes could result in issues later on.
Name and Address Changes After Divorce
Perhaps the most immediate changes after a divorce are those in the last name and address. There are many entities that you need to notify if you choose to change your last name and/or find a new place of residence.
The first step in the address change process is to contact the U.S. Postal Service and obtain a change of address form. This will transfer your mail to your new address. A change of address form is only a temporary solution, so you make sure you contact any person or business directly to make sure they have your updated address.
A new driver’s license will be necessary as well. You will need to visit the DMV in your area to obtain a new driver’s license that reflects the name or address change. If you choose to change your name, the first stop will be the Social Security office. They will review the divorce decree and print a new Social Security card that reflects the name change.
Your name and address change will also need to be reflected on any banking accounts and personal checks. Making this change will help clear up any confusion in the future and keep your finances secure. Opening new accounts may be a better option depending on the terms of the divorce and the nature of your previous banking habits.
Other Practicalities With Divorce
There are other practicalities you will need to deal with after divorce is finalized. Many of these considerations help protect your future and ensure you receive any necessary services later on.
Make sure you review any life insurance policies you have. After a divorce, you may want to change the beneficiary. If you choose to keep your will as is you will want to update your policy to reflect any changes in surname or address.
Once the divorce is finalized, you need to consider revising or rewriting your will. The change in marital status can affect any previously established decisions. If these changes aren’t made, there may be a delay in the execution of your final wishes.
You will also need to contact your health insurance provider. Any change in marital status will affect the health coverage you previously had. If you were not the primary account holder for your health insurance, you’ll need to make arrangements to obtain your own coverage.
Car Insurance Options After Divorce
It may come as a surprise, but a divorce will also affect your car insurance coverage. There will be a change in covered drivers, long-term needs, and policy cost. Make sure to add your insurance provider to the list of entities to contact after a divorce. You may find yourself a single parent after a divorce. The life of a single parent is really a balancing act. You will be working with a co-parent and making decisions as a team from a distance. Luckily there are auto insurance policies tailored to the needs and struggles of single parents.
Contact your auto insurance provider to discuss your new needs and the discounts you may be eligible for. Make sure your insurance coverage is not interrupted. You’ll want the peace of mind and security that auto insurance offers in a trying time.
Divorce is never fun. It’s a time of great change, struggle, and transition. Ensure you have a strong support system that reaches outside your legal representation. Take the time to grieve and emotionally process this change and then tackle this new life.
Laura Gunn researches and writes for the auto insurance comparison site, AutoInsuranceEZ.com. She is passionate about individuals succeeding in life after major changes and challenging transitions.
