People you should tell when you split up

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Your mortgage lender or landlord (private, housing association or local authority). You should find out what your rights and options are first, see Further help and information and Know your housing rights.
Your local Jobcentre Plus and Inland Revenue offices, and the Housing and Council Tax Benefit department at the local authority, see Claim benefits and tax credits for the family on page 1.
The Council Tax section at your local authority, you may now qualify for a discount see Apply for a Council Tax discount on page 2.
Banks and creditors, see above.
Water, gas, electricity and telephone companies. You may need to change the name of the person responsible for future payments. Meter readings for gas and electricity should be taken. This may help you to negotiate with your ex-partner for payment.

You should also ask the supplier for their code of practice on treating joint debt after a couple has separated. Some water companies in England and Wales may reduce part of their charge if there are fewer occupants in the household.
Insurance companies.
An employer if the person to be contacted in an emergency has changed.
If relevant, an employer and/or trade union to change the name of a nominated beneficiary in the event of your death.
Your children's school to help the teachers to understand any unusual behaviour triggered by the separation and so they can keep you informed if your child is upset or experiencing difficulties.

The school will need to have details of both parents in case they need to contact one of you in an emergency, and so they can send school reports or other notices to you both. They should also know if there is a change to who collects the child from school.

It will help if both of you make clear decisions about each of your involvement with the school.
Your GP, dentist and any other health professional who deals with you or your children. You may also need to change the details of the person or people that should be contacted in emergencies.
The Television Licensing Authority and the Driver Vehicle Licensing Authority. If you have a TV and/or a car, you will need to inform them of any changes to ownership or address.
If necessary, the post office to re-direct your mail.

Next page: Making or altering a will when you split up

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