Divorce involves dozens of legal, financial, and practical decisions — often made under enormous emotional stress. Lumeway helps you understand what needs to happen, in what order, so nothing falls through the cracks.
What to expect
Critical deadlines
A Qualified Domestic Relations Order must be filed before your divorce is finalized to divide retirement accounts without tax penalties.
You have 60 days from loss of coverage to elect COBRA. After divorce, you're no longer eligible for your spouse's employer plan.
You have 2 years from the divorce decree to change your name on your Social Security record without additional documentation.
If your marriage lasted 10+ years, you may be eligible for Social Security benefits based on your ex-spouse's record.
Most states require a waiting period of 30–180 days after filing before a divorce can be finalized. Check your state's requirements.
Update beneficiaries on life insurance, retirement accounts, and bank accounts immediately — don't wait until the divorce is final.
National resources
Legal information and resources for people going through divorce, especially those experiencing abuse.
womenslaw.org →State-specific divorce laws, forms, and guidance on the divorce process from Nolo's legal team.
divorcenet.com →Learn whether you qualify for Social Security benefits based on your ex-spouse's record.
ssa.gov →Official Department of Labor guide to COBRA continuation health coverage after divorce.
dol.gov →Lumeway walks you through every step of your divorce transition — from protecting your finances to rebuilding your life.