In any divorce, the financial documents are the foundation upon which a fair settlement is built. Without them, everything is just guesswork. For a spouse who has not been in control of the family finances, gathering these documents is the most empowering action you can take. It provides a clear, factual picture of your marital estate.

While the full list can be long, you don't need to find everything at once. Focus on securing copies of these five key documents first:

1. Tax Returns: At least the last three to five years of personal and business tax returns. These provide a complete overview of income, investments, and business activities.

2. Pay Stubs and Income Information: Your spouse's recent pay stubs, W-2s, or 1099s to verify their income.

3. Bank Account Statements: At least one year of statements for all checking, savings, and money market accounts, whether they are in your name, your spouse's name, or held jointly.

4. Retirement and Investment Account Statements: The most recent statements for all 401(k)s, IRAs, pensions, and brokerage accounts. This shows the value of your nest egg.

5. Loan and Debt Statements: Statements for the mortgage, car loans, student loans, and credit cards. It's just as important to understand your debts as it is your assets.

Start by making copies of any documents you have access to in the home. Store them safely on a secure cloud drive. This initial step will give you a powerful head start in the process.

To get our complete, detailed checklist of all the documents you may need, download our free guide: Financial Clarity & Control: The Professional's Guide to a Secure Financial Future After Divorce.