After the loss of a loved one, dealing with financial and legal matters can be exhausting.

We understand that grieving takes energy, and we want to help you make the transition from married life to widowhood on your timeline. While every couple, family, and eventually survivor’s situation is unique, there are some common threads. We are here to help prioritize and deal with the details and the surprises that can crop up. We want to be your financial sounding board to provide the support you need to make the tough decisions. Global View Investment Advisors was founded on the principle of growing and preserving investors’ wealth, and that continues to be our mission as we carry out our founder’s legacy and protect yours.

Establishing the financial picture

- Help with the transfer of ownership
- Coordinate with beneficiaries
- Net worth calculation
- Prepare Budget

Bill review and prioritization

- Identify what can be canceled or consolidated
- Determine which account names need to be updated

Analytical support for major decisions

- Real Estate Decisions
- Vacation home next steps
- Rental property
- School/college selections
- Care for elderly parents

Other important considerations

- Travel
- Connecting with Friends/Family
- Hobbies
- Work
parallax background

You don’t have to navigate this new journey solo.

Our team is here to help.

Navigating Finances After a Loss

Frequently Asked Questions

Am I going to run out of money?
Because things have changed and some previous uncertainty is now defined, the plan you had in place with your spouse should be reevaluated. A Global View advisor can walk you through an updated financial picture and help you navigate your investments, income, and expenditures to safeguard against running out of money.
What are the impacts of widowhood on Social Security income?
Retired couples that are relying on both Social Security incomes can experience a shortfall after the loss of a spouse. Alternatively, a surviving spouse who is below retirement age needs to realize that they’re potentially entitled to receive a survivor benefit from Social Security and understand how decisions, such as remarrying or beginning payments before full retirement age, can impact their benefit. A financial advisor can help proactively plan next steps for the best outcomes.
Is it wise to change financial advisors after the loss of a spouse?
Major life changes, like the loss of a spouse, can create the necessity to evaluate your advisor relationship. It’s critical to determine whether your current advisor understands your goals as an individual or is just continuing to operate as if nothing has changed. This is especially important if your spouse was the primary financial decision-maker. A good indicator to determine if change might be appropriate is to ask yourself whether the current advisor had an intentional relationship with both of you or only your spouse.
How soon should I meet with a financial advisor after my spouse dies?
There’s no “right” time, but meeting with an advisor early on can prevent missed deadlines (for things like insurance claims or estate filings). A good advisor will help you understand what's urgent and what can wait and guide you throughout the process at your own pace.
What type of financial advisor is best for navigating finances after losing a spouse?
A fiduciary, fee-only financial advisor is generally the best fit. A fee-only advisor means they’re paid directly by you, not through commissions. This ensures their financial incentives are aligned with yours, which matters when you’re grieving. Look for advisors with a CFP designation or NAPFA membership, which require fiduciary, fee-only standards.
What financial steps should I take first after losing a spouse?
The most important financial steps include notifying financial institutions, locating key documents (wills, insurance policies, account statements, etc.), and beginning the process of transferring account ownership. You’ll need certified copies of the death certificate to complete a lot of these steps. Working with a financial advisor during this time can help you prioritize next steps without feeling overwhelmed.
How long does it take to transfer financial accounts after a spouse’s death?
The timeline varies depending on account type and how it was set up by the original holder. Beneficiary designations can significantly speed up the process, with transfers sometimes happening in a few business days. Accounts without any beneficiary planning will go through probate court, which typically takes six months to over a year. A financial advisor can help you determine the timelines depending on your situation.
Can a financial advisor help me create a budget as a widow or widower?
Yes. Your income and expenses will likely change significantly after losing a spouse. Social Security benefits, pension income, and household costs all shift. A financial advisor can help you build a realistic budget that reflects your new financial reality and ensures your long-term security.