Make funeral arrangements – this will take most of your time the first few days so focus on this with the help of your family. You should review the will so that you follow any special instructions
Assemble your team – meet your financial advisor, your lawyer, and bank manager. Involve your kids or a good friend you can trust to help you with all of the decisions and information that will need to be addressed
Apply for government programs – depending on age, there may be government programs available that will improve your financial situation. Apply for these now.
Contact employers – if your spouse was still working, you will need to let your employer know. There may be additional benefits that are available from your spouse’s employer.
Call life insurance companies – to find out what information they need for you to cash in any life insurance
Contact banks and investment advisors – let them know what has happened and provide the necessary documentation to transfer all assets to you.
Update wills and power of attorney – now that your spouse is gone it is time to update your will and powers of attorney
Review real estate position – discuss your real estate situation with your lawyer and make any transfers that are needed. You may be thinking of downsizing, don’t rush, take your time to make your decisions.
Preserve your assets – you may need all of your savings for the future to pay your own bills etc. Avoid spending your assets until you have a good appreciation of your situation.
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