text: is the separation date in a divorce important? should it be choosen wisely and why? what cannot be done after this date? what about retirement account money? if taken out does it need to be payed back if used for house/living expenses? depending on your state, the date of separation can be important as far as responsibility for bills, and assets.  if you were separated on jan 1st, and opened a charge account in feb, your partner probably wouldn't have to pay any part of that.  as far as retirement accounts that were opened and contributed to during the marriage, they would be divided, and if any part was used, i would think that it would come out of that person's portion.  an attorney would be able to give you the exact laws for your situation.