Losing a spouse changes everything. When you build a life together, it’s natural to imagine decades of shared plans and dreams. But when the unthinkable happens, those plans are suddenly gone, leaving you to navigate a new reality on your own.

Finding your footing takes time, support, and a strategy to rebuild. Without prior discussions about finances or future plans, the road ahead can feel overwhelming. But you don’t have to face it alone. Here are some essential steps to help you navigate this challenging transition and start creating a path forward.

Start taking small steps with your finances.
Losing your partner is an emotional whirlwind, and managing finances might not be your first priority. But before long, those decisions will need your attention. Every situation is unique—if you kept finances separate, there might not be much to reorganize. However, if you shared accounts, savings, or debts, now is the time to review everything.

If your partner handled most of the household finances, stepping into that role can feel overwhelming. But the sooner you begin, the more manageable it will become. Don’t hesitate to seek help from financial experts to guide you through this transition.

Review your partner’s financial and legal documents.
Understanding what your partner has left behind is a crucial step. Ideally, a will or trust will outline assets and obligations, but if that’s not the case, you may need to do some detective work. Start by looking through files, safe deposit boxes, and consulting lawyers or advisors.

Gather everything—from credit card accounts and workplace benefits to real estate and other assets. The more information you collect, the clearer your path forward will be.

Support your children through the process.
If children are involved, this transition can be even more challenging. Losing a loved one is hard for them, and they’ll need extra support as they process their grief. It’s common for children to feel guilt or fear they’ll forget the one they lost.

You don’t have to handle this alone. Tap into resources like the New York Life Foundation, which provides guidance for grieving families. Together, you can take steps to heal and move forward.

Put life insurance to work.
This is exactly why life insurance exists—to provide security during times like this. If your partner had a policy, connect with their financial professional to start the claims process.

If there wasn’t a life insurance policy, look into other potential benefits such as employer-provided coverage or retirement funds. Don’t forget to update your own policy, changing beneficiaries and reviewing your coverage to ensure it meets your new needs.

Tackle loose ends at your own pace.
From transferring names on utility bills to larger matters like handling real estate, there will be a list of tasks to address. Prioritize what’s most urgent and allow yourself the grace to take it one step at a time. Don’t hesitate to ask for help—it’s okay to lean on others during this period.

Start planning for your future.
Once you’ve gained some footing, shift your focus toward the road ahead. Start creating a plan for your retirement, explore new savings options, and think about long-term financial goals. Life will look different without your partner, but with time and intention, you can create a secure and fulfilling future.