✅ Post-Divorce Reboot Checklist

💸 Financial Foundation

✅ Open new individual checking/savings accounts
✅ Update direct deposit and autopay info
✅ Create a new monthly budget (account for alimony, child support, housing changes, etc.)
✅ Track and update your credit score
✅ Separate all joint accounts and credit cards
✅ Close or remove your name from joint loans (car, home, HELOC)
✅ Refinance mortgage if keeping the home
✅ Review all insurance policies (life, health, auto, home)
✅ Adjust beneficiaries on life insurance, 401(k), IRA, etc.
✅ Update your W-4 and review tax withholding status
✅ Organize and file your divorce decree for easy access
✅ Track child support/alimony income and expenses for tax and legal purposes
✅ Start or rebuild your emergency fund (goal: 3–6 months of expenses)
✅ If you received assets, review how to optimize their use (rental property, stocks, etc.)

✅ Change your name (if applicable) on: Social Security card, driver’s license, passport, bank accounts, work-related docs
✅ Update or create a new will and/or trust
✅ Name a new power of attorney and healthcare proxy
✅ Re-title assets (home, vehicles, business interests)
✅ Update or create a parenting plan and visitation calendar
✅ Get copies of important documents (QILDRO, divorce decree, custody agreement, etc.)
✅ Review the Qualified Domestic Relations Order (QDRO) if retirement accounts were split

🏠 Home & Living Situation

✅ Decide: keep, sell, or refinance the marital home
✅ Set up new utility accounts in your name
✅ Change locks, security systems, and online passwords
✅ Declutter shared belongings, furniture, and legal documents
✅ Set up a peaceful, empowering new living space
✅ Forward mail and update your address with USPS, banks, subscriptions, etc.

👩‍👧‍👦 Kids & Co-Parenting (if applicable)

✅ Create a co-parenting communication plan (boundaries, tools, expectations)
✅ Agree on consistent routines for kids (school, bedtime, holidays)
✅ Set up a shared calendar for custody and events
✅ Discuss rules for introducing new partners
✅ Create a financial plan for kids’ expenses (tuition, medical, extracurriculars)
✅ Ensure both parents are listed on key records (school, medical, etc.)
✅ Talk to a child therapist if needed
✅ Reassure kids they are safe, loved, and not at fault

🧠 Emotional Recovery & Wellness

✅ Find a therapist, coach, or support group (even virtually)
✅ Journal or reflect on what you want your new life to look like
✅ Practice self-care consistently—nutrition, sleep, movement, calm
✅ Give yourself permission to grieve, grow, and reimagine
✅ Celebrate small wins (first solo holiday, handled your own taxes, etc.)
✅ Set clear boundaries with your ex (especially during emotional flare-ups)
✅ Avoid major rebound decisions (new relationship, big purchases) for 6–12 months

🌱 Rebuilding & Looking Ahead

✅ Define new personal goals—career, finances, wellness, relationships
✅ Revisit or create a long-term financial plan
✅ Meet with a financial advisor or planner to map your next 5–10 years
✅ Set up new savings goals (house, car, vacation, investments)
✅ Join new social circles, groups, or hobbies
✅ Consider dating again only when you are ready
✅ Reclaim your calendar—fill it with people and things that energize you
✅ Make room for joy—travel, dance, sing, eat good food

📞 Ready to Rebuild with Confidence?

Divorce may have shaken things up, but it doesn’t have to define what comes next. Let’s map out your next chapter—financially, emotionally, and strategically.

💬 Book your complimentary call and get clear on your priorities, your plan, and your path forward. No pressure. Just real conversation, thoughtful guidance, and next steps designed around you.

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Disclaimer: The information provided on this site and its blogs is for educational and informational purposes only. It does not constitute financial, legal, or tax advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for guidance tailored to your individual circumstances. The examples, illustrations, and sample checklists are intended for general reference and are not meant to reflect any individual or family's specific needs or outcomes. They are provided to demonstrate concepts and do not guarantee future results. All investing involves risk, including possible loss of principal. Past performance is not indicative of future results.