1. Essential Documents
Basic Requirements
- Marriage certificate (original or certified copy)
- Government-issued ID (driver's license, passport)
- Birth certificates (yours, spouse's, children's)
- Immigration documents (if applicable)
- Any existing separation agreements
- Previous court orders related to family matters
2. Financial Documents
Income Documentation
- 3 years of tax returns
- 3 years of Notices of Assessment
- Recent pay stubs (3 months)
- Employment letters
- Business financial statements
- Corporate tax returns
Bank & Investment Records
- 12 months of bank statements
- Investment account statements
- RRSP and TFSA statements
- Pension statements
- Stock option details
- Cryptocurrency holdings
3. Property Documentation
- Land titles (certificates of title)
- Mortgage statements and agreements
- Property tax assessments
- Recent appraisals or market valuations
- Vehicle registrations and loan statements
- Insurance policies (home, auto, life)
- Receipts for major purchases
4. Children-Related Documents
Child-Related Records
- Children's birth certificates
- School records and report cards
- Medical records and insurance cards
- Childcare receipts and contracts
- Extracurricular activity expenses
- Special needs documentation (if applicable)
5. Financial Disclosure Requirements
Financial disclosure is mandatory in Alberta divorces. Both parties must provide complete and honest financial information.
Consequences of Non-Disclosure
- Court can draw adverse inferences
- Orders can be set aside later
- Cost awards against non-disclosing party
- Contempt of court findings
6. Frequently Asked Questions
Key documents include: marriage certificate, financial statements (3 years of tax returns, NOAs), property documents (titles, mortgages), bank statements, investment records, pension statements, debt records, and business documents if applicable.
Financial disclosure is the mandatory exchange of complete financial information between spouses. Both parties must provide sworn financial statements, tax returns, and supporting documents. Failure to provide full disclosure can result in court penalties.
Typically, you need to provide the last 3 years of tax returns and Notices of Assessment. In some cases involving self-employment or complex finances, more years may be requested.