Widows
When You Lose a Loved One
Alone with Money Matters
Being a widow and especially with kids, you might have tough questions:
How will I take care of my family without my partner?
How do I pay my bills?
Do I need to get a job?
What do I do with my spouse's retirement plans?
Is it wise to combine IRA accounts?
Am I entitled to part of my spouse's pension?
What happens with Social Security?
What do I do for health insurance?
You never thought this day would come, but it did.
We understand how emotionally challenging it is to lose your spouse. But while grieving, you are facing significant money decisions. At Fleet Wealth, we will guide you through this journey, prioritize urgent needs, and put off what can be done later.

Taxes After Death of a Spouse – !!!
Did you manage money before?
Shifting tax brackets, missed deadlines, retirement-account issues – all these can cost you.
Or, did the stocks cost basis step-up to the date of your spouse's death? If not, you can get a heavy tax bill when you sell.
It is typical that being in emotional distress, you might miss things. Your oversight today can lead to a huge problem later.
Want to catch an error in time?

Action Plan for Widows
Yes, you are grieving but you need to act. First, complete the Information Worksheet. It includes personal and professional contacts and an inventory of your assets.
Besides an Information Worksheet, these are your key priorities:
- Request certified copies of a death certificate
- Call the insurance company and file a claim
- Probate the will
- Apply for a survivor benefit
- Retitle accounts
- Review loans, bills, and financial obligations
- Cancel payments no longer relevant
- Change emergency information

Feeling Overwhelmed?
At Fleet Wealth, we can sort through everything and create a plan that works for you and your family.
An attorney will guide you through the probate process. He/she will update your will and check your estate planning documents.
A CPA will determine taxes on your benefits, maximize deductions and plan for all your upcoming tax obligations.
A financial planner will review your current situation and the impact your spouse's passing will have on your finances and your life.
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