What to Do When a Spouse Dies Suddenly

No one ever feels ready for that moment. 

The phone rings. The news breaks. Life changes. 

And while the emotional weight can feel all-consuming, there are often financial matters that need attention right away. It’s a challenging time to be asked to make decisions. 

At The Retirement Planning Group, we’ve had the honor of walking alongside many families during moments like these. We know how heavy it all can feel, and we also know that with the right support, the financial side doesn’t have to add to your stress. 

You Don’t Have to Have All the Answers

In the days after losing a spouse, it’s normal to feel overwhelmed, uncertain, and emotionally spent. It’s also common to suddenly be facing practical questions that don’t feel very practical at all:

• • How will the funeral be paid for?
  • Will Social Security benefits change?
  • What bills are due, and when?
  • What happens next?

The truth is, you don’t need to figure it out alone. 

One of the most meaningful things we can offer during this time is a simple message:

“Take care of yourself and your family. We’ll help you take care of the rest.”

There’s no rush. And there’s no pressure. Just a team that knows your story and is ready to guide the following steps when you’re ready. 

Why Both Spouses Should Have a Seat at the Table

In many households, one spouse takes the lead on finances, paying bills, managing investments, and tracking retirement goals. The other may stay a step removed, trusting their partner to handle it. 

But when something unexpected happens, that dynamic can create added stress at an already painful time. 

According to the 2023 UBS Own Your Worth Report, only about 26% of women are actively involved in long-term financial planning decisions. That means nearly 1 in 4 women may find themselves stepping into unfamiliar territory after the loss of a spouse. 

We share that not to worry you, but to encourage conversations that can strengthen your family’s financial foundation. 

At The Retirement Planning Group, both spouses should feel informed, empowered, and known. That’s why we make it a point to build relationships with both partners, not just the one managing the numbers. 

Because when life throws something unexpected your way, you shouldn’t have to start from scratch. You should have a team that already understands your values, your goals, and how to help you move forward one step at a time. 

A Gentle Guide for the Early Days

If you’ve recently lost your spouse, we want first to say: We’re so sorry. While we can’t ease the emotional pain, we can help take a few items off your plate. 

Some helpful first steps include:

• • Ordering several copies of the death certificate 
  • Contacting Social Security (or your advisor, who can help you do this)
  • Letting your financial team know what’s happened
  • Identifying any urgent bills or expenses 
  • Pressing pause on any significant financial decisions for now

There’s no need to do it all today. With a caring advisor by your side, you can move through it one step at a time. 

If You’re Planning Ahead, Ask Yourself

• • Do we both feel included in our financial planning conversations?
  • Would we know who to call if one of us were suddenly alone?
  • Are we both confident in how our finances are set up?

If you’re not sure, that’s okay. These questions aren’t meant to alarm; they’re meant to spark connection. There’s no wrong time to become more involved, ask more questions, or build a stronger relationship with your advisor. 

Our ‘Key Elements of a Financial Plan’ blog is a great place to start learning together. 

A Relationship That Shows Up When It Matters Most

When a spouse dies suddenly, the emotional impact is life-changing. And while no one can fully prepare for that moment, you don’t have to go through it without support. 

A financial team that truly knows you, not just your portfolio, can be a steady presence during the most challenging seasons of life. We’re here for that. 

Whether you’re grieving or planning ahead, we’re ready to meet you where you are with guidance, compassion, and care.