Nobody makes a film about the admin. But untangling two lives is a lot of forms, passwords and hold music. Here’s the checklist I wish I’d had (for Australians, but it can honestly help anyone).
First, the honest part
The biggest thing nobody warns you about is how overwhelming it feels. Like you couldn’t possibly untangle yourself from the web of your relationship. I’ve been there and bought the ticket. At one point I even considered not ending things, because it felt so insurmountable.
So here’s my strategy: tackle one thing a day. That’s it. Some days that one thing will take hours (banking stuff, ugh). Other days it’s a five-minute password change. Either way, it counts.
Work through the list below at that pace, and tick off what applies to you.
Accounts and money
- Open an account in your own name, if you don’t have one
- Review joint accounts and cards
- Change your online banking and email passwords
- Check your credit report (it’s free)
Government
- Update your address and details with myGov, the ATO and Medicare
- Update your electoral enrolment with the AEC
- Check with Services Australia whether any payments or child support apply to you
The things people forget
- Superannuation beneficiary nominations
- Your will
- Insurance policies (life, health, car, contents)
- Emergency contacts at work and school
- Streaming, phone plans and shared subscriptions
Get proper advice
A family lawyer and a financial adviser can save you far more than they cost. I’m not either of those, and this list isn’t legal or financial advice. It’s just the list I wish I’d had.
One thing. Every day. Closer to your new life.
xox Meghan
