Who do I need to tell about my divorce?

During the stress of going through divorce, it can be difficult to keep on top of everything you need to do and everyone you need to tell about your new status.

To support those in this position, we’ve compiled a handy guide to help you keep track of who needs to know about your divorce.

While the list is comprehensive, it is not exhaustive but will hopefully provide a starting point for getting your affairs in order.

The Bank

You will need to update any personal bank accounts with your new details and name, where appropriate. You will also need to deal with any joint bank accounts, as some financial institutions will freeze these accounts once notified about an impending divorce. Do contact them to ensure that any regular payments and direct debits continue to be paid. You will also need to talk to your ex to discuss who will continue to pay certain bills and how they will be paid.

Credit Card & Loan Companies

You will need to arrange with your ex how any outstanding balances will be paid and inform the companies involved of your new arrangements.

Mortgage Provider

As your home is most likely to be your most valuable asset, it is essential to ensure that any mortgage payments continue to be met. Do keep the company updated with your situation and how and when the payments will be made.

Local Council

Homes with a single occupant are entitled to a 25% reduction in council tax. So, if one of you has moved out of the family home, it is important to inform the local council to benefit from this reduced rate of council tax.

HMRC

Being divorced may change the amount of tax you are liable to pay, so it’s important that HMRC are informed to adjust your tax code, if relevant.

Utility Companies

Particularly if the name on the account is changing, it is important to make your gas, electricity, water and broadband suppliers aware of your new arrangements.

DVLA & Car Insurance Company

If you change your name, you’ll need to update your driving licence and vehicle registration certificate. If the family car is no longer based at the family address, you’ll need to inform the insurance company, along with any change to the number and identity of the drivers.

Employer

You will need to tell your employer about your change in circumstances and if your name has changed.

Insurance Companies

All policies will need updating with any new name and new address.

Benefit Providers

For those in receipt of benefits, such as Carer’s Allowance, Disability Living Allowance and Jobseeker’s Allowance, any change in circumstances must be declared as it may affect the amount of benefits payable.

Children’s School & Activity Providers

If you are changing your name, it is important to inform your children’s school and any activity providers. It is also important to inform both of the divorce regardless, as it will alert them to the cause of any change in behaviour and they can support the children through any period of adjustment.

Doctors & Dentists

Do explain to both your doctor’s surgery and dental practice your change in circumstances. Again, it may help them to support you through the challenges of divorce.

Passport Office

If you are changing your name, you’ll need to update your passport.

Post Office

If you are changing address, you’ll need to arrange with the Post Office to have your mail forwarded to your new home.

If you are struggling with issues arising from separation and divorce, we offer a no obligation initial consultation for a fixed fee of £100 (incl. VAT), for up to one hour. At this meeting, we can advise you on all the issues relating to your personal circumstances, allowing you to make informed decisions moving forward.

To book an appointment please call 01444 472700, email us at info@tisshawssolicitors.co.uk or complete the form below.