Here's what actually needs to happen—and when.
Losing a spouse is devastating. And somewhere in the middle of that grief, you're expected to make financial decisions—some urgent, some that can wait, and many you've never had to think about before.
This page won't tell you everything. But it will help you understand what's ahead, what actually needs your attention now, and where you might want support.
A note before we start:
There's no right way to do this, and no timeline for grief. If you're not ready to deal with finances yet, that's okay. Most things can wait a few weeks. Be gentle with yourself.
Not everything is urgent. Here's a general sense of what needs to happen when—though your situation may vary.
Each of these has its own complexity. You don't need to master all of them—but it helps to know what you're dealing with.
Probate, title transfers, beneficiary designations. What needs to go through the courts and what doesn't. How assets pass to you—and eventually to your heirs.
Social Security survivor benefits, pension options, life insurance proceeds. Understanding what you're entitled to and when to claim it.
Filing status changes, inherited assets and step-up in basis, required distributions from retirement accounts. The year of death and the year after often have unique considerations.
Health coverage if you were on your spouse's plan. Whether you still need life insurance. Auto and home policies that may need updating.
Consolidating accounts, rebalancing for your situation, understanding what you actually own. Creating income from assets if needed.
It's that everything is connected.
When you take Social Security affects your taxes. How you title inherited assets affects your estate plan. Whether you keep the house affects your cash flow, which affects how you invest. The decisions ripple.
And you're being asked to make these decisions during the hardest time of your life, possibly about topics you've never had to think about before.
This is where a good financial advisor isn't a luxury - they can provide relief. Someone who sees the whole picture, coordinates the pieces, and helps you make decisions without the pressure of having to become an expert yourself.
This is a specialty. The financial, emotional, and practical dimensions are different from typical retirement planning. Ask if they've worked with clients in your situation.
This means they're legally required to act in your best interest. Important when you're vulnerable and learning as you go.
You need someone who can slow down, explain things clearly, and give you space to process. Not someone pushing products or quick decisions.
Look for someone who can coordinate across estate, tax, investments, and insurance—not just manage a portfolio.
AdvisorFinder helps you find financial advisors based on your unique situation. You can search for advisors who specialize in working with widows and surviving spouses. See their background, approach, and fees before you ever reach out.
No one contacts you unless you want them to. Take your time.
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