Widow/Widower Guidance: What to Handle After a Spouse Passes Away

Losing a spouse is heartbreaking.

During this difficult time, it’s important to take things one step at a time.

This list is here to help you stay organized and gently guide you through the process.

First Steps (Within the First Few Days)

• Obtain multiple copies of the death certificate (at least 10–15).

  • Needed for banks, insurance, vehicle registration, pensions, etc.

• Notify immediate family and close friends.

• Arrange funeral, memorial, or burial services (if not pre-planned).

• Locate your spouse’s important documents, such as:

  • Will or trust

  • Insurance policies

  • Marriage certificate

  • Birth certificate

  • Social Security card

  • Military discharge papers (if applicable)

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Legal and Financial Actions

• Contact the attorney (if there’s a will or trust) to start probate or trust administration.

• File the will with the local probate court (even if no probate is required).

• Notify the Social Security Administration to stop benefits or apply for survivor benefits.

• Contact life insurance companies to claim any benefits.

• Meet with your financial advisor or bank representative about accounts and investments.

• Retitle jointly owned assets (property, vehicles, etc.) into your name only.

• Update deeds and titles for homes, cars, boats, or other property.

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Bank Accounts and Credit Cards

• Update or close joint bank accounts.

• Open a new account if necessary in your name alone.

• Stop automatic payments or withdrawals tied to your spouse’s accounts.

• Cancel or update joint credit cards.

• Check for any life insurance attached to credit cards (some cards offer this).

• Pay off any immediate outstanding debts, if possible, or arrange payment plans.

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Vehicles and Property

• Transfer vehicle titles and registrations into your name at the DMV.

• Update your auto insurance policy to remove your spouse’s name.

• If property was held jointly, update property records with the county recorder's office.

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Healthcare and Benefits

• Cancel your spouse’s health insurance coverage.

• Apply for COBRA coverage or new health insurance if needed.

• Submit claims to medical insurance for final medical bills.

• Review your own Medicare, Medicaid, or insurance policies for needed changes.

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Pension, Retirement, and Benefits

• Contact pension administrators to check survivor benefits.

• Notify the Veterans Administration (VA) if your spouse served in the military.

• Roll over IRAs or retirement accounts, if appropriate (speak with a financial advisor first).

• Adjust your income and tax withholding, if necessary.

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Household and Utilities

• Change the name on utility accounts (electric, gas, water, internet, phone).

• Cancel memberships or subscriptions in your spouse’s name.

• Update your homeowner’s or renter’s insurance.

• Reassign or cancel any service providers (security systems, cleaning services, etc.).

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Updating Personal Information

• Change your marital status with:

  • Social Security Administration

  • Department of Motor Vehicles (driver's license)

  • Passport agency (if traveling)

• Update emergency contact information with doctors, employers, etc.

• Update beneficiaries on your own:

  • Life insurance policies

  • Retirement accounts

  • Bank accounts

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Emotional and Practical Support

• Seek grief counseling or support groups — you don't have to do this alone.

• Ask a trusted friend, relative, or attorney to help you review documents if you’re unsure.

• Take your time with major decisions — there’s no need to rush important changes.

Quick Checklist Summary:

[ ] Order death certificates

[ ] Notify Social Security and insurers

[ ] File the will and start probate if needed

[ ] Transfer property and vehicle titles

[ ] Update bank and investment accounts

[ ] Cancel or change utilities, subscriptions, services

[ ] Update your own insurance and beneficiaries

[ ] Get support — emotional and legal

You Are Not Alone

This journey is difficult, but step-by-step you will get through it.

We are here to help you organize, plan, and move forward when you're ready.

For a free checklist click here: Widow(er) Checklist

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