It is extremely important that you collect all of the financial information you can before divorce. Make copies of as many of these papers as possible and keep them in a safe and private place (where your spouse will not find them). Make copies of new papers as they come in, especially as you get close to filing court papers and as you get close to a court hearing. This may be needed for proof if your case becomes contested or your spouse will not provide any information at the time of divorce. This information should include the following, or as much as you can get.
1) Your most recent income tax return and W-2 tax forms for you and your spouse.
2) Any other income documents (such as interest, stock dividends, etc.)
3) Your spouse’s most recent paystub, hopefully showing year-to date earnings (otherwise, try to get copies of all paystubs since the beginning of the year).
4) Deeds to real estate.
5) Titles to cars, boats, or other vehicles.
6) Your will and your spouse’s will.
7) Life insurance policies.
Stocks, bonds, or other investment papers.
9) Pension or retirement fund papers and statements.
10) Health insurance cards and papers.
11) Bank account or credit union statements.
12) Your spouse’s Social Security number and driver’s license number
13) Names, addresses, and phone numbers of your spouse’s employer, close friends, and family members.
14) Credit card statements, mortgage documents, and other debt papers
15) Copies of bills or receipts for regular expenses, such as electric, gas, car insurance, etc.
16) Copies of bills, receipts, insurance forms, or medical records for any unusual medical expenses (including for recurring or continuous medical conditions) for yourself, your spouse, or your children.
17) Any other papers showing what you and your spouse earn, own, or owe.
