The first year after losing a spouse brings overwhelming emotions alongside important decisions. Knowing what needs immediate attention versus what can wait can make the difference between added stress and thoughtful progress.

In Part 3 of our Navigating Life After Loss series, I share how to approach both urgent and long-term planning after the loss of a spouse. I explain which financial and lifestyle choices deserve early focus, how tax planning can protect your future, and why building a supportive foundation is essential. Together, we look at practical ways to move forward with clarity and confidence.

Key takeaways include:

• The impact of pre-death planning, wills, estate plans, and beneficiary designations on easing stress after loss
• The key financial updates in the first year, including executors, trustees, Social Security timing, and income sources
• How tax filing status changes after a spouse’s passing, and strategies like Roth conversions and capital gains harvesting
• Rebuilding a financial foundation through account consolidation, investment updates, and income planning
• The importance of lifestyle and emotional choices, such as housing, community support, and designing the next chapter of life
• And more!

Resources:

• Get Your FREE Simply Retirement Roadmap 
• Navigating Life After Loss: A Guide for the Newly Widowed
• #67 – Navigating Life After Loss – Part 1: The First Week
• #68 – Navigating Life After Loss – Part 2: Financial & Legal Aspects
• #37 – Top 5 Questions on Social Security Survivor Benefits
• #60 – Downsize or Rent in Retirement? 5 Key Decisions You Should Consider
• #66 – Understanding The Widow’s Penalty and What You Can Do About It

Connect with Eric Blake: 

• www.TheSimplyRetirementPodcast.com
• Join the Simply Retirement Newsletter
• Ask a Question or Suggest a Topic for the Podcast
• Blake Wealth Management
• YouTube 

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