Photo of the legal professionals at Harry Lewis Co., LPA
Photo of the legal professionals at Harry Lewis Co., LPA

Trusted In The Columbus Area
For More Than 40 Years

Photo of the legal professionals at Harry Lewis Co., LPA

Trusted In The Columbus Area For More Than 40 Years

How can I ensure my ex-spouse is removed from my estate plans?

On Behalf of | Oct 24, 2018 | Post-divorce Estate Planning |

After a divorce in Ohio, one of the first things you need to do is change your estate plan. You want to remove your ex-spouse from the various aspects of your plan because you no longer want him or her to have control or decision-making power. It is very easy to overlook some items in your plan that need to be changed. It may help to make a list.

According to Forbes, you want to ensure your ex-spouse is no longer in a position to control your wishes, finances or assets. This means you need to focus on those things that appoint your ex-spouse as an executor, beneficiary or agent.

Start by making sure any co-owned accounts are dissolved or at least have your ex-spouse’s name removed from them. Also, check your emergency contacts anywhere you may use them, such as work or the hospital, and change them. You may also want to change anywhere you have your ex listed as a contact. Depending on your parenting plan, this may also affect similar contacts for your child at school and for medical purposes.

It probably goes without saying that you need to revise your will to remove your ex-spouse. Also, change the beneficiary on your health insurance and life insurance. You should also revise any trusts you have set up for your ex-spouse or that name your ex-spouse.

Finally, ensure your ex does not have any power over you and your decisions by revising your power of attorney, if you have one, and also revising any health care directives. This information is for education and is not legal advice.