We all know that any day might be our last, yet few individuals prepare for the financial decisions that will be required of the surviving spouse or family. It’s normal to want to avoid talking about mortality, yet life goes on, creditors want their money, and asset management must continue.
1. Asset Retiling
After losing of a spouse, one of the first things that has to be done is to transfer assets from the deceased person’s name to the surviving spouse’s name. This can range from an IRA or shared bank account to a car or real estate. Each of these modifications takes time; they aren’t instantaneous. It might be beneficial to have someone, such as a lawyer or a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) TM, who knows how to get these processes completed in a timely manner. Having skilled assistance on hand is frequently the key to a successful transfer.
2. Insurance
It is advisable to have adequate life insurance coverage for both couples. Yes, even for the partner who doesn’t work! When a non-earning partner is lost, the earning partner is unable to work as efficiently as before the loss. If possible, purchase personal insurance in addition to the life insurance provided by your employer. Learn about the insurance firm and the information around it. You should be aware of the perks provided by your partner’s employment. Some companies, for example, may provide benefits such as life insurance, accidental death and dismemberment insurance, and survivor income for the husband and children.
3. Learn about Investments and its Access
It’s tough to learn new things during a mourning process, so don’t wait until you’re in a crisis to learn about your assets, how your taxes are filed, and the foundations of your financial plan. Know where to get copies of wills and trusts, as well as historical tax documents. Make sure you know the user names and passwords for any accounts you’ll need to access, such as Google and Apple accounts that save images and memories from your family. Work with your bank trust department or an estate attorney if you don’t want to disclose information with a friend or family.
4. Be aware of the whereabouts of all your Assets
When a loved one dies away, families are frequently left in the dark. Basic queries such as “what assets were possessed,” “where they are stored,” and “what estate plan was in place” are frequently left unanswered. A family member established a “one-stop shop” where all necessary information could be obtained. This individual should be aware of all assets and obligations, as well as passcodes and contact information for CPAs and attorneys. The less a survivor knows, the more expensive it is to settle problems.
5. Take a breathe
This might entail relocating, selling a home, returning to work, and starting a new employment. Allow yourself some time to grieve and adjust to your new normal. It’s difficult to think rationally after a traumatic experience.
6. Know the Loan Details
Know how loans are handled once a borrower or co-signer passes away. Personal debt laws, such as those covering house mortgages and vehicle loans, differ from state to state. Consumers are protected, but lenders have rights as well. Getting ready and then phoning the loan’s servicer. You may be required to show that you are the listed executor, and the lender will want a copy of the death certificate before speaking with you. He also points out that every loan servicer has a section dedicated to dealing with a borrower’s death, and that as long as you can keep the payment current, it’s in their best interests to reach an acceptable agreement.
7. Bills should be Organized
Create one box or tray for unread mail if your husband handled the bills and you need a new method. Make sure every piece goes into that box. Look for past or regular payments in your chequebook or online banking account. Look for electronic alerts of bills due if you have access to your spouse’s email account. Make a note of all the bills you can locate, including utility, credit card, rent or mortgage, and other expenses. Cancel any subscriptions or services that just your spouse is a part of. Also keep in mind that the method for cancelling contracts varies each provider. Exiting car leases and cell phone contracts may be particularly aggravating.
8. Understand your Cash Flow
The first thing to do is to take a look at money coming in and how it may have changed since your loss. You may be facing lower income without your spouse’s salary, or you may have some additional funds through a life insurance payout or inheritance.
If you have children under age 18, be sure to apply for spousal survivor benefits from Social Security, Francis said. Also, make sure you are collecting any life insurance money you may be entitled to, so reach out to your loved one’s employer to see if there was coverage, as well as any private insurers.
Another potential source of money may come from any unclaimed funds. Do a search on your state’s online unclaimed funds site for both you and your loved one.
9. Know the terms of any Credit Card Accounts
Cards can close automatically upon the death of the account owner; so you may need to arrange a new method of payment for services that have been set up on auto payment. If you are an authorized user on an account that was owned by the deceased, do not use the card after the main cardholder dies; because you’re not liable for the debt, use of the card after the owner passes could be considered fraud.
10. Return on Taxes
A last tax return must be made once a person has died. Working with a CFP and/or a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) for assistance in this area is strongly recommended. You’ll want to double-check that the final tax return is filled out correctly, since errors might result in undue hardship for you as the surviving spouse, as well as an increase in your tax burden. A CFP and a CPA can collaborate to reduce the tax burden on inherited funds. They may also be able to lower their taxable income by employing various investing method.