How to Protect Credit Rating From a Separated Husband in Pennsylvania

When you've separated from your husband, one of the last things you may be thinking of is your credit rating or score. Yet, it's important that you take steps to secure your property and credit so that if you end up getting a divorce, you don't emerge from it in a rough financial spot. You should come to an agreement with your spouse before the separation in order to make sure your credit is protected and that he will not be able to run up credit card debt in your name.

Instructions

1

Hire a lawyer and a mediator to help you draft a separation agreement and determine how property will be split. In Pennsylvania, there is no "legal separation," but you should still come up with an agreement as to how you will divide any debts, property or custody, especially if you intend for the separation to end in divorce.

2

Sign up for your own credit card and bank account.

3

Split any credit card debt you and your husband share in a manner that is fair to both parties. Transfer your portion of the debt to your new credit card and have your husband transfer his to his own card. Close any joint credit card accounts and let your creditors know you are separated.

4

Remove your husband as a card holder from any credit card accounts you may have in your own name. Ask him to return the credit card to you and cut it up. If you keep him as a card holder, you will be held solely responsible for any debt he incurs.

5

Make sure all your bills get paid each month, especially ones in your name. Not paying utility or telephone bills can ding your credit score. Assume responsibility for all the bills in your name and close any accounts you do not personally need.