Financial planning for widows

Key takeaways

Living with your spouse requires some amount of financial planning to be prepared in case something unexpected happens.
Having a will that includes both your wishes can make tough times a little easier to handle.
It’s not easy to think about, but having a plan can really help you stay organized financially if you ever lose your spouse.

Managing your finances after losing your spouse

It’s something most couples don’t like to think about, but unfortunately, one of you will likely die before the other.

That’s why it’s important to have a plan about how to manage your finances if your spouse dies before you do. While you’re grieving, there are some things you’ll need to do right away, and others you can take some time to manage.

Immediate financial considerations

Gather the information for all your financial accounts including bank accounts, credit cards and investments.
Locate your spouse’s will.
If your spouse had life insurance, either a personal policy or as part of employer benefits, contact the insurance company to make a claim.
Apply for Canada Pension Plan/Quebec Pension Plan survivor benefits or Guaranteed Income Supplement Widowed Spouse’s Allowance.

Longer-term financial considerations

Re-evaluate

As you’ll be losing 1 income, with the help of an advisor, it’s important to re-evaluate your financial situation, your budget, your retirement goals and retirement plan.

It’s not uncommon for women to feel the financial pinch of 1 income more than men. Often, their income and their pension will be smaller than men.

Take charge of your finances

Review your estate plan
Revise beneficiaries for investments and insurance policies
Update your will and power of attorney
Change the ownership title for bank accounts, investments and your car and home
To prevent fraud, cancel your spouse’s government ID cards and credit card
Cancel any services or subscriptions your spouse used that you no longer need, including social media and apps

What's next?

Now that you know more about financial planning after the death of a partner, you may choose to meet with an advisor to:

Review your estate plan and revise your beneficiaries for investment and insurance policies.
Help you explore your retirement planning options and understand what might work best for you.
Learn more about term life insurance for retiree and seniors if you’re thinking about getting life insurance coverage.

The information provided is based on current laws, regulations and other rules applicable to Canadian residents. It is accurate to the best of our knowledge as of the date of publication. Rules and their interpretation may change, affecting the accuracy of the information. The information provided is general in nature and should not be relied upon as a substitute for advice in any specific situation. For specific situations, advice should be obtained from the appropriate legal, accounting, tax or other professional advisors.