How to Avoid Identity Theft by an Ex-Spouse
Maintaining a good credit score can be a challenge, especially in America – the land where plastic fuels the retail industry. Yes, we all know the temptation to buy that unattainable item. And most of the time, we create our own debt. But what happens when an ex-spouse takes control of your identity and places red marks on your credit report?
According to recent statistics, this is an all too common scenario, and in many cases, an ex steals a spouse’s identity as a way to get revenge. If an ex knows your Social Security Number, he can easily get hold of your identity and obtain credit cards in your name. If your ex-spouse was the secondary card holder on your credit card, it makes theft that much easier. He can buy whatever he wants. And when the bill is due, the credit card company will come after you – the primary card holder.
As a result, your credit score can take a hit. While in many cases, the guilty party’s credit will also suffer, that may not be a concern if the goal is to do damage to you. This can also happen if you’re separated from your spouse.
However, there are ways to combat and even avoid this formidable situation. Have your lawyer write up an agreement stating that all debts incurred will be paid for equally by both parties. This avoids the problem of having to pay off all the debt yourself. Also make sure that financial obligations are put in writing once your divorce is finalized. This is the painful part. You will need to pay off credit debt before you can take your name off the account and obtain another card in your name alone.
Making sure you are covered financially can be a challenge, especially when going through the divorce process. Oftentimes people are so eager to get out of the marriage that they forget to set provisions about unpaid debts down on paper.
Oral agreements are unreliable. The best way to avoid being stuck with unpaid debt is to write a contract stating who is to pay for what. The division of assets should also be considered. Determine who gets what and have your ex sign the contract, stating that they will pay for all unpaid items they get from the divorce. Otherwise, one or both parties pay for the divorce long beyond signing the final divorce decree.
If you’re separated and have communal debt, it’s easy for your ex to forge your signature and get out of paying off the debt. One way to prevent this from happening is to not sign your name on the back of your credit card. Signing a card with your spouse’s name on it makes it easier to for your ex to steal your identity and rack up debt for you to pay off.
According to experts, the problem with filing a report against an ex or someone you know is that no investigation will be conducted, and no police report can be filed.
Once you have taken these steps to keep your ex from stealing your identity, sever all ties. That way, he or she doesn’t have the opportunity to get your information. If children are involved, there will obviously be monetary obligations. Go through legal processes, and be honest about alimony and monetary obligations.
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