How to Protect Your Credit Score During and After Divorce

At The Betz Law Firm, we understand that protecting your financial well-being is crucial to moving forward.

Divorce can have far-reaching effects on many aspects of your life, including your credit score. While the divorce itself doesn’t directly impact your credit, the financial implications and responsibilities that come with ending a marriage can significantly affect your creditworthiness.

Here’s what you need to know to protect your credit score during and after your divorce.

1. Get a Copy of Your Credit Report

Before beginning divorce proceedings, obtain copies of your credit reports from all three major credit bureaus. This gives you a clear picture of:

• All accounts in your name
• Joint accounts with your spouse
• Any accounts where you’re an authorized user
• Current account balances and payment status

2. Close Joint Accounts When Possible

Work with your spouse to:

• Close joint credit card accounts
• Remove each other as authorized users
• Pay off and close joint lines of credit
• Refinance joint loans into individual names

3. Open New Individual Accounts

Establish credit in your own name by:

• Opening a new individual credit card
• Setting up utilities in your name
• Creating new bank accounts
• Building your independent credit history

4. Monitor Your Credit Regularly

During and after divorce:

• Check your credit reports monthly
• Watch for unauthorized charges
• Monitor joint account activity
• Address any issues immediately