The decisions you make in the first few weeks affect everything — your finances, your kids, your future. Lumeway helps you understand what needs to happen and in what order, starting with what's most urgent.
Secure copies of all financial records before anything changes. Open a bank account in your name only. Consult with a family law attorney before making major decisions.
File temporary orders if needed to protect assets and custody. Start gathering financial disclosure documents — most states require them. Update emergency contacts.
Complete financial disclosure. Work on custody and parenting plans. Start evaluating health insurance options if you're on your spouse's plan.
Finalize your settlement agreement. Update your will, beneficiaries, and account titles. Establish your new budget. Your Lumeway dashboard tracks every step.
Critical deadlines
Some states issue automatic asset freezes upon filing; others require a separate motion. Missing this can allow a spouse to drain accounts or hide assets.
If you lose coverage through your spouse's employer, you have 60 days to elect COBRA continuation. After that, the window closes permanently.
A Qualified Domestic Relations Order should be filed with or shortly after the divorce decree. Delays can complicate retirement account division significantly.
Most states require 6 months to 1 year of residency before you can file. Check your state's requirement before beginning the process.
Your tax filing status is based on your marital status as of December 31. The year your divorce is finalized, you'll file as single or head of household.
Retirement accounts, life insurance, and transfer-on-death designations may still name your ex-spouse. Update these as soon as the divorce is final.
Trusted resources
Find free and low-cost legal aid in your state for divorce, custody, and family law matters.
lawhelp.org →Legal resources and safety planning for anyone experiencing domestic violence during separation.
womenslaw.org →Co-parenting communication platform for managing custody schedules, expenses, and messaging.
ourfamilywizard.com →State-specific divorce filing guides, forms, and requirements.
divorce.com →Your divorce dashboard
Organized guidance built for exactly this moment — so you can protect yourself and move forward.
Your personal dashboard
Track every step in one place
Checklists, in-depth guides, a resource directory, and a glossary of terms — all organized around your specific situation.
See all dashboard features →See it in action
Start with a free conversation — Lumeway walks you through your situation step by step. Then track everything in your personal dashboard: deadlines, documents, activity log, and state-specific resources.
Lumeway helps you navigate every step of your divorce — from securing your finances to rebuilding your life.
Free to start. No credit card required.
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