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The credit cards are paid off. The cards are cut up. And I’ve started making the calls to close the accounts.

Phew, the difference in customer service is crazy. One account took me over an hour just to close it and then a couple of days for it to actually be processed and receive confirmation. One account took me 3 minutes and I received confirmation immediately. (Neither of these accounts was the Southwest Credit Card, I just happened to take a picture of that one when I cut it up.)

Effects on my Credit Score

I’m waiting to see what closing the accounts does to my credit score. And yes, I know that at this juncture of my life, my credit score is the least of my worries. But it’s still something I watch. It’s been fun to see it hit the low 700s as I paid off all my credit cards.

It is also going to be interesting what happens when my mortgage company finally closes out my account with the credit bureaus. I wonder how long that will take?!? My mortgage has been on the “negative” of my credit score since I got it. Always said too little of the balance has been paid down even though I never missed a payment.

Mind on My Money

Outside of daily care for my mom. Cooking for my dad and I. Visiting different churches. Reading library books (I check them out on my ipad from my Georgia library. I haven’t visit the local library to set up an account there.) Scheduling monthly family dinners. And the occasional trip to my parent’s neighborhood pool. I am focused on work and money.

I’m not where I want to be as far as steady income goes, but I’m getting there. And having money in the bank and the financial pressure off has really helped my mental health.

Hope

Hope is a resourceful and solutions-driven business manager who has spent nearly two decades helping clients streamline their operations and grow their businesses through project management, digital marketing, and tech expertise. Recently transitioning from her role as a single mom of five foster/adoptive children to an empty nester, Hope is navigating the emotional and practical challenges of redefining her life while maintaining her determination to regain financial control and eliminate debt.

Living in a cozy small town in northeast Georgia with her three dogs, Hope cherishes the serenity of the mountains over the bustle of the beach. Though her kids are now finding their footing in the world—pursuing education, careers, and independence—she remains deeply committed to supporting them in this next chapter, even as she faces the bittersweet tug of letting go.

Since joining the Blogging Away Debt community in 2015, Hope has candidly shared her journey of financial ups and downs. Now, with a renewed focus and a clear path ahead, she’s ready to tackle her finances with the same passion and perseverance that she’s brought to her life and career. Through her writing, she continues to inspire others to confront their own financial challenges and strive for a brighter future.

5 Tips for Staying Sane and Out of Debt During Your Divorce

by Semify

Divorce can shake the foundation of your daily life, both emotionally and financially. Managing household expenses, legal fees, and emotional strain all at once makes it easy to lose track of priorities. However, approaching your situation with a strategy can help preserve your mental clarity and your bank account. While each divorce is different, some tried-and-true methods can help you stay grounded during the process. Whether you’re just considering separation or already involved in legal proceedings, these five tips offer realistic ways to protect your well-being without letting your finances spiral out of control.

Know Your Legal Alternatives Before You File

Court isn’t the only way to reach a settlement. Exploring mediation, arbitration, or other dispute resolution options could help you avoid expensive legal battles. These alternatives are available in many states, including Indiana, where parties may choose between five official forms of dispute resolution instead of traditional courtroom litigation. By avoiding the courtroom, you may save thousands in legal costs and reach a resolution more quickly and amicably.

Track Expenses and Create a Divorce Budget

A clear view of your financial picture will help you make more informed decisions. Start by listing your income sources, recurring expenses, and any anticipated legal or relocation costs. If children are involved, consider child-related expenses and how they may shift after the divorce. Having a firm grasp of your budget will help you identify spending patterns and reduce waste, especially when dividing assets or negotiating support. Without a budget, small financial leaks can turn into significant debt during the process.

Avoid Major Purchases Until the Divorce Is Final

Although it may be tempting to celebrate your fresh start with a vacation or new vehicle, delaying big purchases can prevent future financial regret. Divorce often comes with unexpected costs like court fees or property appraisals. Some couples own assets in growing markets—such as the Detroit Region, which includes Ann Arbor and Novi—making valuations unpredictable. Until you understand how the settlement will unfold, it’s best to keep your finances as flexible as possible.

Surround Yourself With Emotional and Practical Support

Mental health can decline when navigating a divorce alone. Joining a support group or working with a counselor can help you manage the emotional highs and lows that may otherwise lead to impulsive decisions. Emotional strain is especially common when a divorce overlaps with other major life events. For example, those recovering postpartum may need several weeks—or even months—to feel physically and emotionally stable again. A strong support system can ease that burden and prevent emotional spending sprees.

Prioritize Future Financial Health Over Short-Term Wins

It’s easy to get wrapped up in trying to “win” the divorce by holding onto specific assets or pushing back against your spouse. However, focusing on what matters long-term—like retirement funds, debt responsibility, or your children’s stability—will help you rebuild more successfully. Stay focused on outcomes that will serve you after the paperwork is signed. Emotional decisions made in the moment often come at a financial cost later.

Maintaining clarity and financial control during your divorce isn’t easy, but it is possible with the right mindset and tools. Exploring your legal options early, budgeting wisely, and staying emotionally supported can make a dramatic difference. Decisions rooted in long-term thinking rather than short-term emotions help set the stage for a more stable future. While your life may feel uncertain now, thoughtful planning can help you avoid unnecessary debt and preserve your peace of mind. Focus on what you can control—your choices—and let that guide you forward.

Blogging Away Debt Our Journeys to a Debt-Free Life

Breaking the Cycle – Closing the Cards