Managing money after a spouse dies

As the Great Wealth Transfer reshapes who manages household wealth, Virta notes that women—who tend to outlive their husbands—are especially likely to find themselves managing significant assets for the first time, often at the moment clear thinking feels hardest.

Virta emphasizes that the goal is not to solve everything at once, but to create space for clear conversations and prioritize the decisions that matter most in the days ahead.

Start with communication

Financial conversations should ideally begin while both spouses are alive, but if they haven't, a loss can be the catalyst to start those conversations—with a fiduciary adviser, other trusted professionals, or a family member who can help convene the right people.

Build a 30-60-90-day plan

• First 30 days: Focus on stability—confirm access to liquid assets, cover essential bills, and identify which accounts are immediately available versus tied up in estate or trust processes.

• First 60 days: Turn to assets moving through the estate/trust process—non-retirement accounts, investment properties, and business interests—along with tax filing obligations and potential estate exposure.

• First 90 days (and beyond): Shift from “What do I have?” to “What does this need to support?” Consider lifestyle needs, philanthropy, and legacy plans for heirs.

Read the full commentary at Kiplinger: Managing Your Money After a Loss: A 30-60-90-Day Plan for Surviving Spouses