Sad Business: Managing Financial Issues in Bereavement (pdf file) -- this special double-edition of NCWA's Women & Aging Letter is designed to provide an overview of many of the financial issues that may be faced following the death of a family member or friend. For the bereaved individual, or the friends who are providing support at this time, this Letter provides information to help guide decision making. While much of the advice focuses on widows/widowers, it does apply to others experiencing a loss. It can help with the tasks faced by a bereaved person and it can be used by anyone who wants to take and/or advise thoughtful action now to help facilitate the inevitable financial responsibilities faced by survivors. Whether or not you are currently facing this situation, we hope this issue will be a useful resource.Life Transitions: Death Coping Financially with the Loss of a Loved One: Financial Guidance for Families -- a complete guide that covers everything from tasks to take care of “the day after” to worksheets on transferring property that passes through probate. Available for free from the American Cancer Society.
Call toll-free: 1- 800-ACS-2345Funerals are among the most expensive purchases many consumers will ever make. A traditional funeral, including a casket and vault, costs about $6,000. “Extras” such as flowers, obituary notices, acknowledgment cards, or limousines can add thousands of dollars to the bottom line. Many funerals run well over $10,000.
Other publications are available through their website.Funerals: A Consumer Guide -- this complete and well-written brochure covers all of the elements of pre-need planning and the Funeral Rule, the federal law enforced by the Federal Trade Commission to protect consumers of funeral goods and services. It walks the reader through how to select the type of funeral that fits the family’s needs, how to choose a funeral provider, costs, services and products. There is a comprehensive list of organizations that can provide information and assistance, a glossary, and a simple-to-use worksheet for comparing costs among funeral homes. Can call or write:
Consumer Response CenterDeath of a Spouse: Financial Steps You Should Take -- following the death of a spouse, there are important financial matters that must be dealt with in a timely manner. This site provides a step-by-step guide to follow during this difficult time, in order to make the appropriate financial arrangements.
Federal Trade Commission
600 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW
Washington, DC 20580
Toll-free: 1-877-FTC-HELP (1-877-382-4357)
TTY: 1-866-653-4261Final Details: Guide for Survivors -- the abridged version of this guide appears on the AARP website, and the entire guide can be ordered online. This useful document outlines the steps that must be taken to make the appropriate financial arrangements following the death of a loved one.
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