Blog

Divorces generate so many documents through the course of the legal matter that it can be overwhelming what to keep and what not to keep.

What documents should you keep after your divorce?

So many clients ask this question, here is a brief list of what to keep after the dust settles and your final decree of divorce is signed by the judge.

• The Final Decree of Divorce and your marriage license. You may need this information later on for application of a passport or social security benefits should you qualify for spousal benefits.
• The Mediated Settlement Agreement or any settlement agreement that details the agreements in the Final Decree of Divorce.
• The Inventory and Appraisal and the documentation provided with the inventory and appraisement. Should there ever be a question about what was or was not disclosed you will have it and the documentation to show the court should the need arise.
• Federal Tax returns from recent years. It is good to keep at least the two years prior to your divorce and at least the first couple of years after the divorce.
• Appraisals for any properties you had done during your divorce.
• Pleadings such as the original petition, answer, and temporary orders. This provides a chronological order of events throughout a divorce should it be needed for any post-divorce issues.
• Child Support or Spousal Support documents. If you have to make payments for either child support or spousal support, make sure you are paying the correct amount, the correct way. Keeping an accurate record will help with any discrepancies later on.
• Any documents like IRS forms for claiming children on taxes are signed and in a safe place.
  Any documents related to the division of property that need to be filed or are filed with the court. This includes any Special Warranty Deeds for the home or Qualified Domestic Relations Order for retirement.
• Limited Power of Attorney for vehicles or other properties into your name or the name of your spouse.
• New wills and other estate planning documents.
• Updated insurance policies from your life insurance to homeowners insurance.