Have you found yourself wondering how to take control of your finances after loss?

Losing your person can leave you staring at a stack of paperwork, bills, and decisions you never expected to face alone. You may be wondering where to start—or worried you’ll get it wrong.

That feeling is normal. And you’re not behind.

Managing your finances after loss is one of the most practical and empowering things you can do to regain a sense of control. You don’t have to have it all figured out today. You just need a place to begin.

From sorting through accounts to setting new goals, here are clear, manageable steps to help you build financial stability on your terms.

Start by Getting Clear

Before making any big decisions, take time to understand your current financial picture.

• Review any life insurance or survivor benefits that may be available.
• Take inventory of your bank accounts, property, retirement funds, and other assets.
• Write down all income sources, including Social Security, pensions, or part-time work.
• Keep an eye on emotional spending. Grief can cloud judgment and lead to purchases that don’t truly support your well-being.

Clarity gives you confidence. It helps you shift from feeling reactive to feeling more in control.

Build a Budget That Works for You

A budget isn’t about restriction—it’s a tool that helps you make informed choices based on what matters most to you.

List your fixed expenses, like rent or mortgage, utilities, and insurance.
Track expenses that change from month to month, like groceries or fuel.
Set aside something for emergencies, even if it’s a small amount at first.

Start with what’s real for you. Your budget should reflect your life right now—not an ideal version of it.

Prioritize the Essentials

When things feel uncertain, it’s okay to simplify.

Focus on the most important expenses first.
This might include housing and utilities, healthcare and prescriptions, transportation, and paying down high-interest debt.

Creating a foundation of stability gives you space to breathe and make decisions with less pressure.

Look Toward the Future

Once the day-to-day feels more manageable, start thinking about what you want going forward.

Write down a few goals—whether it’s building savings, making a move, or setting yourself up for retirement.

Start saving consistently, even in small amounts.

If you’re open to investing, look into options that feel comfortable and aligned with your timeline.
Check on your retirement accounts to see if adjustments are needed.

These steps don’t need to happen all at once. They just help you shift from surviving to building.

Ask for Support

You don’t have to figure this out alone.

A financial advisor can help you make sense of everything—from investment decisions to debt reduction to estate planning.

Look for someone who listens, explains things clearly, and respects your comfort level.

This is about creating a partnership, not handing over control.

Getting professional help is not a sign of weakness. It’s a smart, practical move toward long-term peace of mind.

Final Thoughts

This part of the journey can feel intimidating, but it’s not out of reach. Every decision you make—every step you take—is part of building a new foundation that honors both your resilience and your future.

You can do this. And you don’t have to do it all at once.

With compassion and hope,
Julie