When you go through a serious breakup, it’s hard to focus on the practical things that need doing. Heartbreak isn’t visible, but it can certainly be debilitating. Because we know you’re not going to be in a place to be able to think clearly, we’ve put together a guide to some of the life admin that you need to consider post-breakup.
There may be things here that you’d not even thought about, so don’t panic. Prioritise the jobs that are most urgent and put off those that can wait if you don’t feel able to face them.
Sort out your big picture finances
This one should definitely be a priority if you have joint finances. You certainly don’t want to end up responsible for someone else’s debt. First up, review anything shared, such as joint bank accounts, shared subscriptions or credit cards. If the breakup was amicable, then you should be able to deal with this smoothly, but you may prefer not to leave anything to chance and to handle all of this yourself. Don’t forget about changing emergency contact details, insurance policies and pension beneficiaries.
Next, you’ll need to review income and expenses to make sure you can afford to live on one income. Identify potential savings and opportunities to generate more income in the short-term if required. If you own a home together or share a tenancy, you’ll need to explore your options as soon as possible.
Look at the details
As well as the big ticket items, don’t forget the day-to-day bills. Work through your bank statements and put together a checklist of all your bills, including council tax, utilities, phone and broadband, car-related costs and anything else that you pay on a regular basis. Work through these, informing the relevant people of your change in circumstances.
Your next steps will depend on what you plan to do with your house. If you need to sell up, you may feel like a quick and simple sale is the best option. This can help you draw a line and move on as soon as possible. Some homeowners choose a cash buyer house service when speed and certainty are the priorities. This gives you a guaranteed sale price and date and means neither of you has to worry about viewings.
Once you’ve moved, remember to redirect your post, update your driver’s licence and voter registration.
Focus on rebuilding your routine
It’s easy to get caught up in memories after a breakup, especially if you find yourself stuck in the same routines. Try to create new routines for yourself that don’t have the same associations. If you always used to go to the same supermarket, cafe or restaurant, switch it up and try somewhere new. It sounds small, but it can have a big impact.
While all of this admin may feel daunting at first, your future self will thank you for getting at least some of it done as soon as you can. Then, when you’re ready to face the world again, it will be one less reminder.
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