Legal and Financial

Losing a spouse, parent or any loved one is difficult, and financial concerns often make the pain of that loss even more difficult to bear.

While you may not want to think about it, make sure you know where the following documents are: A will, if there is one, social security cards for both you and your loved one, any insurance policies, loan and lease documents, stock certificates, partnership or employment agreements, retirement plans, deeds, mortgage documents, brokerage account statements, bank statements, birth and death certificates, divorce agreements, safety deposit box documents, prepaid funeral arrangements, and the last four years of tax documents.

Once you have these documents, take a moment to itemize your bills and your current assets. This way you know which bills need paid and which ones can wait. Always pay the mortgages, insurances, car and utilities first. Contact all creditors and let them know of your loved one's passing. When you are ready, create a budget of expected income, liabilities and assets.

It is a hard time to be thinking about money matters, especially if you've never had to worry about these things before. It is a necessary step, though, and one that can save you even more heartache later on. Contact an accountant or financial planner on these decisions if they are too overwhelming for you, but be very careful in choosing a qualified, competent, and trustworthy accountant to help you in an already trying time. See who your friends use or recommend, and always ask for references before hiring any firm or person to handle your financial matters.