Financial Recovery After a Major Life Event

Experiencing a major life event, such as the death of a loved one or a divorce, can take an emotional toll, often shifting practical considerations like finances to a lesser priority. Having a clear understanding and plan for your finances can help bring stability and peace of mind during these difficult times.

Establish an Emergency Fund

First and foremost, having an emergency fund is vital. This fund serves as a financial cushion that can help you manage unexpected expenses or income fluctuations without disrupting your daily financial obligations. Things like an unexpected car repair or a job loss can wreak havoc on your finances. Having a safety net can provide much-needed stability.

Set a goal to save at least three to six months of living expenses. Establishing a pre-authorized transfer to a savings or money market account, timed to your payroll date, is one of the best ways to accomplish this. In the wake of a spouse’s death or divorce, these funds can be invaluable in maintaining stability as you adjust to your new reality.

Maintain Credit Worthiness

Being creditworthy is always important, especially if you need to refinance existing debts or establish new credit independently. A first step is to review your credit report and correct any inaccuracies. You are entitled to one free credit report annually from each of the three major credit bureaus. Make sure to pay your bills on time, reduce outstanding debt, and avoid taking on new debt unnecessarily. Good credit will help you secure loans with favorable terms, which is critical when rebuilding your financial life.

Evaluate and Adjust Insurance Needs

Life can change significantly after the loss of a spouse or a divorce, and when one of these life events occurs, so do your insurance needs. Reassess your life, health, home, and auto insurance policies. You may need to adjust beneficiaries or coverage that better suits your new circumstances. For instance, becoming a single parent or a single-income household may require different life insurance coverage to protect your dependents’ futures.

Plan for Retirement

Regardless of your age, it’s essential to focus on retirement planning. If you were relying on your spouse’s retirement plan, it may be necessary to adjust your savings strategy. Consider increasing your contributions to a retirement account, such as an IRA or 401(k), especially if you are catching up. It's always a good idea to consult with a financial advisor to tailor a plan that maximizes your retirement savings and accounts for your changed circumstances.

Set New Financial Goals

After a significant life event, reassessing and setting new financial goals is crucial. Start by defining clear, achievable objectives, such as buying a new home, funding education for your children, or investing in your career development. These goals will give you direction and motivate you to maintain financial discipline.

Deliberate planning can help lay the groundwork for a secure financial future following a major lifetime event. Establishing an emergency fund, maintaining creditworthiness, ensuring proper insurance coverage, planning for retirement, and setting new financial goals are all steps that will serve you well as you adjust to a new life and recover emotionally and financially.