Essential Steps and Documents to Gather Post-Separation

Going through a separation is challenging enough without the added stress of gathering important documents and taking care of essential tasks. At Coastal Lawyers, we’ve guided many clients through this process, so we know just how crucial it is to get organized and stay ahead of the game.

Here’s a handy checklist of documents you should collect and things you should be thinking about as you navigate your separation.

Documents You Should Collect

First things first—let’s talk paperwork. You’ll need to gather some key documents to ensure you’re prepared for what comes next.

• Birth Certificate: Make sure you have a copy of your birth certificate handy.
• Passport: If you have a passport, grab it. You’ll need it for identification and possible future travel.
• Marriage Certificate: If you were married, this is an essential document to have on hand.
• De Facto Registration: For those in a de facto relationship, collect any registration documents if applicable.
• Medicare Card: Ensure you have your Medicare card or a copy of it.

Date of Separation

One of the first things to do is to record the date of separation. Did you tell someone about the separation on that day? If so, that person may be able to provide a statement in the future if there’s ever a dispute over the date. This date can be critical for legal and financial reasons.

Financial Documents

Next up, make sure you have copies of all your financial documents. These will be essential in understanding your current financial position and planning for the future.

• Banks:
  • General account statements
  • Credit card and store card statements
  • Afterpay or other buy-now-pay-later accounts
  • Loan statements, including home loans and overdrafts
• Insurance:
  • Health, home and contents, car, income protection, life, and pet insurance policies
  • Note whose names are on the policies and how much the repayments are.
• Tax:
  • Notices of Assessment
  • Tax File Number
  • Know your taxable income and, if possible, your partner’s taxable income.

Vehicle Documents

If you own vehicles, you’ll need to gather some key details:

• Registration: Whose name is the car registered under?
• Finance: Is there any finance on the car? Whose name is the loan in? What’s the repayment schedule?
• Loan Details: When will the loan be paid off, and how much are the repayments?

Utilities and Subscriptions

Utilities and subscriptions can often be overlooked, but they’re important to manage during a separation.

• Utilities:
  • Electricity, gas, water, phone, internet, and Pay TV (Foxtel, Netflix, Stan, etc.)
  • Know whose names the accounts are in, the repayment amounts, and if any can be canceled because they’re in your name but you’re no longer using them.
  • Also, consider canceling any third-party accesses.

Superannuation and Investments

Superannuation is another critical area to address.

• Superannuation:
  • Gather information about your super balance and, if possible, your partner’s.
  • Check who your nominated beneficiary is—if it’s your partner, consider if you want to change it.
• Investment Statements:
  • If you have shares, managed funds, or receive share dividends, make sure you have up-to-date statements.

Business and Trust Documents

If you or your partner own a business, gather relevant documents:

• Businesses:
  • Know the financial position of the business, how it’s set up (sole trader or company), and how long it’s been operating.
  • Collect profit and loss statements, depreciation schedules, and business activity statements.
• Trusts:
  • Identify any trusts and who the beneficiaries are.

Government Benefits

If you receive any government benefits, make sure you have the necessary documentation.

• Government Benefits:
  • Centrelink
  • Child support
  • Childcare rebate

Loyalty Cards

Don’t forget about loyalty cards—these can sometimes be a point of contention.

• Loyalty Cards:
  • Gather details on Flybuys, store cards, and other rewards programs.

Family File

Create a document that lists key details, including:

• Your Information: Name, DOB
• Your Ex-Partner’s Information: DOB, address, employer details, etc.
• Children’s Information: Names, DOBs, and other relevant details

Update and Change

Now comes the part where you need to secure your privacy and start making some changes:

• Passwords: Change passwords for your email, social media accounts, and internet banking.
• Address: Update your address on personal accounts. Consider obtaining a mailbox or redirecting mail to a new address.
• Banking: Start your own bank account if you don’t already have one. Consider closing joint accounts, credit cards, and redraw facilities.
• Insurance and Leases: Update insurance policies and lease details if one party has moved out.
• Superannuation and Legal Documents: Update the beneficiary on your super, as well as your will and power of attorney.
• Mortgage Payments: If you’re worried about making payments, contact your bank. You may be able to suspend payments.
• Location Sharing: Turn off any location sharing services like “Find My Friends.”

Final Thoughts

Separation is never easy, but getting organized can make the process smoother and less stressful. By gathering these documents and making the necessary changes, you’re taking important steps towards securing your future.

Need Help?

If you’re feeling overwhelmed or unsure about where to start, contact Coastal Lawyers today to book a strategy session. We’ll help you navigate the complexities of your separation and provide the support you need to move forward with confidence.

DISCLAIMER (BECAUSE WOULD WE EVEN BE LAWYERS WITHOUT ONE):

The information in this blog is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For tailored guidance, book an obligation-free appointment with Coastal Lawyers online..