Guiding families through all aspects of divorce in North Carolina

Attorneys at Raleigh Divorce Law Firm

Who needs to be told about your divorce?

On Behalf of | Sep 9, 2022 | Divorce |

With any major life event, there are people you want to tell, such as your closest friends and family. This also applies if you are ending your marriage. You may have to prepare what you will say and choose your timing to inform your loved ones of this life event, but it is still an important step in the process.

However, there are agencies that require this information as well. While you do not have to call up these agencies and tell them about the divorce, you must make them aware of this life change – and the effects it has.

A divorce changes more than your marital status

Divorce changes your marital status, but this change can impact many other areas of your life. It could result in changes such as:

  • Your name
  • Your physical and mailing addresses
  • Title to your car and home
  • Ownership and responsibility of your banking accounts and credit cards

You will have to update numerous companies and agencies regarding all of these changes. However, this list is longer than many people realize.

Who needs to know you are divorced?

Before you get divorced and after it is finalized, you need to make certain your personal information is changed in all the right places. If you are changing your name or address for example, the federal government lists many of the agencies that require updates. These include, but are not limited to:

  • The Social Security Administration
  • Tax services and the IRS
  • North Carolina motor vehicle departments
  • Voter registration services
  • The United States Postal Service
  • Government benefit programs

You must also inform banks, credit unions, insurance companies, your child’s school and even your employer about relevant changes to your personal information. It is also very important to update your will and beneficiary names on your life insurance and retirement accounts.

Make the time to take these steps

This may seem overwhelming, especially during the rocky time during and immediately after a divorce. Additionally, most of these agencies will require different processes and paperwork to update your information. It can be a bit overwhelming.

The changes don’t need to be made immediately, but they still need to happen ASAP. Make a list for yourself and work on getting through the list as quickly as you are able.

Archives