Divorce can be overwhelming—emotionally, financially, and logistically.
But once the paperwork is signed and the court order is entered, many people are surprised to learn: there’s still work to do.
Finalizing your divorce doesn’t mean your legal and financial affairs automatically adjust to your new circumstances.
In fact, this is the time to take control of your next chapter and ensure everything reflects your new life.
Here are 9 important steps to take after your divorce is final:
Most people list their spouse as a beneficiary on retirement accounts, life insurance policies, and investment portfolios. Unless your divorce settlement requires you to keep your ex-spouse as a beneficiary, now’s the time to update those designations.
Why it matters: If you don’t update them, your ex could still inherit your assets.
Your estate plan should reflect your current wishes. This includes your will, living will, and any financial or medical powers of attorney.
What to change: Remove your ex-spouse from roles like executor or healthcare agent, unless your agreement requires otherwise.
Financial separation isn’t always complete just because the court signed the decree.
If you still share joint checking accounts, credit cards, or online payment accounts, those need to be closed or removed. Oftentimes, your Separation Agreement will outline what accounts need attention in this regard.
Pro tip: Open new accounts in your name alone, update your direct deposit, and check your credit report for accuracy.
Update or replace your health, auto, homeowner’s, and life insurance policies. If you were covered under your ex-spouse’s plan, explore options through your employer or the Colorado insurance marketplace.
Bonus tip: Double-check who’s listed on your auto and homeowner’s policies—many people overlook these. Don’t forget to review your coverage limits.
If you’ve changed your name, notify the Social Security Administration, DMV, banks, and any institutions that hold official documents.
Also, update emergency contacts, school records, and medical providers.
Your post-divorce budget and goals may look different. Now’s the time to create a clear financial plan that supports your future.
What to consider: New housing costs, retirement savings, college planning, tax implications of spousal support, and insurance premiums. A financial advisor can help you assess long-term needs.
Divorce can leave you emotionally and logistically isolated. Having the right team in place—legal, financial, and emotional—can make the transition much smoother.
Where to start: Talk to a therapist, meet with your attorney to review any lingering legal items, and don’t hesitate to ask for support from friends or professionals.
Even after a divorce is final, it’s common for ex-spouses to have lingering access to personal accounts—whether intentionally or by habit.
Email, cloud storage, shared calendars, and even streaming platforms can all expose sensitive information or lead to unwanted contact.
What to do: Change passwords on all personal accounts, especially financial logins, email, cloud storage, and shared apps.
Set up two-factor authentication where possible and ensure recovery information (like backup emails and phone numbers) is no longer linked to your ex-spouse.
Many couples share household accounts—streaming services, gym memberships, phone plans, or even online shopping logins. These accounts often persist long after the divorce, either due to forgetfulness or convenience, but they can create confusion and ongoing entanglement.
What to do: Audit your shared services and cancel or update them as needed. This includes subscription boxes, utility bills, school apps, shared calendars, and family accounts on streaming platforms or online retailers.
Updating these accounts helps create healthy boundaries and financial clarity.
At Geigle | Morales, we understand that your divorce decree isn’t the final chapter—it’s the beginning of a new one. Our team is here to help you tie up loose ends and make confident decisions about what comes next.
Whether you need help updating legal documents, enforcing custody agreements, or planning for the future, we’re ready to guide you every step of the way.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation. Let’s make sure your next chapter starts on solid ground.