It is also a good idea to open a checking account in your own name to safeguard your finances. This will allow you to pay expenses without having to worry about your spouse finding out or taking the money. You can use this account to build a reserve to cover emergency expenses, attorney fees, rent, deposits, utilities, etc. If you don't want your spouse to know about this account, have the statements sent to a PO box. This account will allow you some financial control until the divorce, but you need to remember that the money in the account is subject to division during the divorce.

Make Sure That You Can Provide For Yourself
With alimony becoming more rare all the time, it's important to be sure that you can provide for yourself after your divorce. If you are currently employed, don't quit your job. If you aren't working right now, polish your resume and begin to think about what type of work you would like to do. You might also consider returning to school to get training, either to advance your career or enter the workforce. While you are preparing for a divorce, have your vehicle thoroughly inspected and repaired. Having costly repairs or needing to buy a new vehicle can crush your budget after divorce.

Seek Legal Advice
It's beneficial to consult with a lawyer during the preparation stage. A qualified family lawyer can discuss what your options are, as well as make suggestions to help further prepare yourself for an eventual divorce. You can also get a rough estimate of what your divorce will cost during your initial consultation, allowing you to save back money in advance. Plus, when you do decide to file, you will already have someone you know to handle your case.

Make Sure That Taxes Are Up To Date
Make sure that all federal, state, and local taxes are paid to date. This can be a major hassle once the divorce is finalized, and a tax lien is the last thing that you need as you start your new life. If you suspect that your spouse has not reported taxes properly and stands to be audited, consider filing amended tax returns as married-filing separately.

Consider Insurance Coverage
If you are covered on your spouse's insurance, get complete medical and dental check-ups done for you and the children. It's important to have any necessary procedures done now while you are covered. Begin checking into getting your own coverage for health, automobile, and home, and take these expenses into account for your post-divorce budget.


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