Till death do us part – Settling a spouse’s financial affairs

Description

Abstract: Because the days or weeks immediately following the death of a partner are an emotionally charged time, new widows and widowers usually should avoid making any major financial decisions during that period. Eventually, however, the surviving spouse will need to get on with the job of settling the other spouse’s financial affairs. This article takes a look at collecting the necessary documents; claiming insurance, employee or government benefits; and updating account registrations and property titles. Then, as a sidebar explains, it’s time to update one’s own financial plan.