Losing a spouse is one of the most challenging experiences in life, and it comes with a host of tasks that need to be managed during an emotionally charged time. When you’re grieving, the thought of dealing with practical tasks can be overwhelming, but you can do a few things to make this difficult time a little easier. Let's take a look at some of the things you'll need to get organized.
Obtain a Death Certificate
A death certificate is crucial for various legal and financial processes. It’s necessary for insurance claims, settling the estate, and notifying government agencies. You’ll need to obtain this immediately and make sure you get multiple copies.
Notify Family and Friends
Sharing the news with close family and friends is never easy, but it does open up a support network. You’ll appreciate their help during your grieving process, and it also provides you with some help for the more pressing matters.
Contact the Funeral Home
You may or may not have made plans for the funeral, but there’s plenty of help available for newly widowed individuals. Arranging the funeral or memorial service is an important step in honoring your spouse’s life, and funeral homes are always empathetic and respectful of your needs. The funeral home can help with the necessary logistics.
Review the Will and Estate Plan
Understanding your spouse’s wishes regarding their estate is essential, and you’ve likely made a few important decisions before their death. This includes identifying beneficiaries, executors, and any specific instructions left in the will, but there’s plenty of help available should you require any additional help.
Notify Your Spouse’s Employer
You’ll need to contact your spouse’s employer to help manage any final paychecks, life insurance policies, and benefits. It also allows the employer to update their records and provide any necessary support.
Close Unnecessary Accounts
Hopefully, you have easy access to your spouse's online accounts to make the closing of accounts easier. Closing bank accounts, credit cards, and other financial accounts prevents identity theft and simplifies financial management. You’ll need to notify creditors and close or transfer accounts as advised by a professional.
Claim Life Insurance
If your spouse had life insurance, it’s now that you can file a claim to receive the benefits. It might seem like a tough task, but it’s worth the effort. It can provide crucial and helpful financial support during a challenging time.
Update Your Legal Documents
In light of the loss of your spouse, you’ll need to update your own will, power of attorney, and other legal documents to reflect your new circumstances. It may seem like a grueling task, but it ensures your wishes are clearly outlined moving forward. In many ways, it’s better to get it sorted while you’re dealing with other such matters.
Notify Government Agencies
Your spouse might have received regular payments from agencies like Social Security and the Veterans Administration. You’ll want to inform them of your circumstances to stop further payments and inquire about survivor benefits. This step is essential for adjusting your financial planning.
Secure Your Home and Belongings
It can be a nerve-wracking time working through assets and finances, but you’ll want to ensure your home is secure by notifying your home insurance company. This helps protect your property and personal belongings. It’s never a bad thing to update locks on your home for your safety and peace of mind.
Cancel Subscriptions and Services
Whether unwanted subscriptions were in your spouse's name or you’re simply looking to budget, you’ll want to cancel or transfer subscriptions and services, such as streaming accounts, memberships, and utilities. This prevents unnecessary charges and helps you manage your budget better.
Address Tax Obligations
No one likes dealing with taxes, especially at a difficult time. It’s wise to contact a tax professional to understand your new tax situation and file any necessary returns. This helps avoid potential penalties and ensures compliance with tax laws. You may not relish the idea, but you’ll be grateful knowing that you’re keeping on top of things.
Seek Grief Counseling
If you’re struggling, don’t be dismissive of your emotional state. Friends and family can be a great support network, but sometimes, it’s hard to gain an objective perspective when they’re grieving, too. Grief counseling provides emotional support and coping strategies from a professional. It’s important to take care of your mental health during this difficult time.
Join Support Groups
Connecting with others who have experienced similar losses can provide great comfort and understanding and help you realize that your emotions are normal. Support groups offer a sense of community and shared experience, and you can even make new friends. These are available in person or online, depending on your preferences.
Review Financial Plans
When you’re ready, meet with a financial advisor to review and adjust your financial plans. Situations differ greatly, with some people needing to budget and others realizing they have financial support available. This helps ensure your financial stability and prepares you for future needs.
Organize Important Documents
You’ll find yourself bombarded with a range of documents, and it’s important to keep things like the will, insurance policies, and financial records organized. It makes life easier to manage, and you’ll be better able to create a checklist of what you’ve done and what still needs doing.
Notify Healthcare Providers
Your spouse will likely have had healthcare, so it’s vital to inform your spouse’s healthcare provider to discontinue payments. You can also contact their doctor and cancel any future appointments. It isn’t easy, but it helps update medical records and manage any outstanding medical bills. It also prevents any unwanted calls enquiring about your spouse’s health or appointments.
Take Time for Self-Care
During the practical tasks, be sure to take time out for yourself. Grief can be harsh on us mentally and physically, so it’s sensible to eat well, rest, and engage in activities that bring you peace and comfort. It might be a solo walk or a meet-up with friends, but self-care helps you maintain your strength during a challenging period. Locking yourself away is rarely a healthy solution, so try to remain as interactive as possible.
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