If you are divorcing or separating and need to sort out your finances, you may hear your solicitor, mediator or the court refer to something called a Form E. For many people, it is one of the most daunting parts of the financial process. Please don’t panic!
In this blog, we explain what a Form E is, why it matters, and where to start if you have been asked to complete one.
What is a Form E?
A Form E is a formal financial disclosure document used in divorce and dissolution cases in England and Wales. It requires you to provide information on all of your assets, income and liabilities and Is a ‘catch all’ form that needs to be supported by accompanying documents.
Both parties complete their own Form E, exchange them with each other to be arranged between themselves, via solicitors, in mediation or (if proceedings are issued) file them with the court. You sign the form with a statement of truth, confirming that the information is complete and accurate to the best of your knowledge. You have a legal duty to provide full and frank disclosure.
Form E is not simply an administrative form and is the foundation of your ability to discuss financial arrangements and negotiate on an informed basis. Judges rely on the information in each party’s Form E to understand what resources are available and to decide what is fair. Incomplete or inaccurate disclosure can lead to delays, increased costs, mistrust or in serious cases, orders being set aside years later.
When is a Form E Required?
A Form E is mandatory if you are involved in contested financial proceedings in the family courts in England and Wales. Once an application for a financial order is made, both parties are usually ordered to exchange Form E as part of the court timetable.
Outside the court process, many couples also use Form E voluntarily during solicitor‑led negotiations or mediation. Even where it is not strictly required, Form E provides a recognised structure and helps ensure nothing important is missed, particularly where finances are complex.
If you have already reached an agreement and are applying for a financial remedy order by consent, you would usually complete a different and shorter document (Form D81) rather than a Form E.
What Information Does Form E Ask For?
The Form E is detailed and thorough and on first blush looks extremely daunting. It requires a deep breath, strong coffee and some time set aside to concentrate.
Broadly, the form covers:
- Income
Your employment income (including RSUs, LTiPs, carry), bonuses, dividends, rental income, self‑employment earnings, benefits and any other sources of income. - Property and capital assets
The family home, other properties, savings accounts, investments, shares, ISAs, Premium Bonds, cash and valuables. - Pensions
All pensions, whether personal, workplace or overseas. You need to request a pension statement or CETV (Current Equivalent Transfer Value). These documents often need to be obtained separately and can take time. - Liabilities
Mortgages, loans, overdrafts, credit cards, tax liabilities and other debts. - Business interests
Any company shares, directorships or business interests, together with relevant accounts (including management accounts and Director’s Loan Accounts) and valuations where available. - Income needs and expenditure
Your current living expenses and what you say you need for the future.
Why Form E Often Feels Overwhelming
Most people do not have all of this information neatly organised. It is common to feel overwhelmed, especially when you are dealing with the emotional impact of separation at the same time.
The length of the form, the volume of paperwork and the fear of “getting it wrong” can make Form E feel intimidating.
Where Do I Start?
If you have been asked to complete a Form E, starting early makes a real difference. Practical steps include:
- Gather documents first
Before filling anything in, collect recent bank statements, mortgage statements, payslips, tax returns, pension statements and investment valuations. Having these to hand will make the process far less stressful and easier to navigate. - Break it down into sections
Treat the Form E as a series of smaller tasks rather than one big document. Work through it methodically, section by section. Take breaks and set aside time when you wont be interrupted. - Be realistic about timescales
Some information, particularly pension values and business accounts, can take weeks to obtain. Request these early. - Ask for help where needed
If your finances are complex, or you are unsure how to value certain assets, professional advice can help protect your position and avoid future disputes. Having your form and enclosures reviewed by a solicitor before finalising can be extremely beneficial.
What Happens After Form E is Exchanged?
Once both parties have exchanged Forms E, each person (and their solicitor, if instructed) reviews the other’s disclosure. Further questions may be raised, missing documents requested, and negotiations can begin with a clear understanding of the available assets.
In many cases, full and transparent financial disclosure clears the way for constructive discussions and settlement.
Final Thoughts
The Form E is one of the most important documents in the divorce financial process. While it can feel burdensome, it also provides clarity and transparency, both of which are essential for reaching a fair outcome and making informed decisions.
If you are unsure whether you need to complete a Form E, or you would like support in navigating the financial disclosure process, taking advice early can make all the difference.
At NE Family Law, we regularly guide clients through Form E—whether in court proceedings, mediation or negotiated settlements—and help ensure disclosure is handled carefully, proportionately and with your future in mind.
We Can Help
We regularly guide clients through their Form E, whether in court proceedings, voluntary or mediation.
If you would like advice on Forms E, financial disclosure due to separation or divorce, contact us to discuss your next steps.
