Financially Ever After Widowhood

By Stacy FrancisBusiness Health & Fitness Kids & Family Investing

Financially Ever After Widowhood episodes

June 25, 2024The Roadmap After Loss with Judy Heft
Are you prepared for the financial complexities of widowhood? In this episode, Stacy Francis and Judy Heft, a financial and lifestyle concierge, discuss essential steps to take after the loss of a spouse. From assembling a support team to navigating benefits like social security and veterans' benefits, you’ll have a roadmap to help guide you through this challenging transition. They also discuss invaluable topics like managing grief, collecting essential documents, and accessing resources like Savvy Ladies to empower women in their financial journey.
Building a strong support team, including professionals like estate planning attorneys, financial advisors, and therapists, is crucial for navigating the complexities of widowhood.
Collecting essential documents such as death certificates, social security cards, wills, and financial account details is a critical step in managing the financial aftermath of losing a spouse.
Utilizing resources like va.gov and ssa.gov can help widows understand and access benefits they may be entitled to, such as veterans' benefits and social security survivor benefits.
Leveraging the help of friends and family to inform various institutions and cancel subscriptions can alleviate the burden of administrative tasks during a time of grief.
Recognizing the importance of financial empowerment for women, organizations like Savvy Ladies offer valuable resources and support to help women take control of their financial futures.
Embracing the role of a positive role model for children and future generations can inspire resilience and financial independence in the face of adversity.

Resources

Judy Heft | LinkedIn | Savvy Ladies

Stacy Francis | LinkedIn | X(Twitter)
Email: [email protected]
25 min
June 11, 2024Transforming Grief into Support with Eloise Bune
What does the word widow mean to you? This is a question today’s guest thinks we should all be asking because it could use a new definition. In this Financially Ever After Widowhood episode, Stacy Francis speaks with Eloise Bune D’Agostino, the founder of DayNew, a company and community to support people through life-changing events. They discuss the challenges and transformations of life after losing a spouse and how Eloise turned her grief into a powerful support network for others.
Key Takeaways:
The word widow has very dark and heavy connotations, but it should also represent strength, resilience and independence.
Eloise shares the story of how, after unexpectedly losing her husband, she connected with another new widow and created a tech company to help others navigate similar situations.
Support systems play a huge role in navigating grief. Grief groups can make a profound difference for people.
Losing a spouse means a lot of practical changes need to be made, even though taking action cab be incredibly difficult. Organizational aids can make it a little more manageable.
Explore how to keep the memory of loved ones alive through personal and family rituals and storytelling.
Everyone has their own grief journey, and there is no one single way to navigate it.
Get insights into creating a supportive community and accessing professional financial advice.
Resources
Eloise Bune | LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram
Email: [email protected]
DayNew

Stacy Francis | LinkedIn | X(Twitter)
Email: [email protected]
25 min
May 28, 2024Hidden Money Sources with David Silversmith
What if you could uncover free money that is rightfully yours? In this episode of Financially Ever After, host Stacy Francis unveils the hidden world of unclaimed funds with guest David Silversmith, a CPA and certified financial planner at Eisner Advisory Group, LLC. They discuss the staggering amount of unclaimed funds available, how they can accumulate from various sources like uncashed checks and dividends, and the importance of checking for unclaimed funds regularly. David sheds light on how to claim your rightful funds and avoid falling into common traps.
There are over $18 billion dollars in unclaimed funds. Discover how to locate yours and those left behind by deceased loved ones.
Learn the importance of tax planning and estate management, especially for widows and widowers, from a certified financial planner and CPA.
Find out how to easily access unclaimed funds in states like New York and the potential challenges in states like New Jersey.
Learn how to file claims for deceased loved ones, including the required documentation, such as death certificates and letters of testamentary.
Avoid common pitfalls when claiming unclaimed funds, such as paying unnecessary fees for services that can be accessed for free.
Explore the range of financial advisory services offered by experts like David Silversmith, including tax planning, audits, and estate management.

Resources
David Silversmith | LinkedIn
Eisner Advisory Group LLC – David R. Silversmith
Stacy Francis | LinkedIn | X(Twitter)
Email: [email protected]
30 min
May 14, 2024Mastering Medicare with Riitta Schoenfeld
What are the key considerations when navigating the complex world of Medicare and health insurance as you approach age 65? In this episode, Riitta Schoenfeld, a Medicare expert, delves into the intricacies of Medicare, discussing eligibility, different plan options, penalties, and the importance of understanding your healthcare coverage. Join us as we unravel the maze of Medicare and empower you to make informed decisions for your financial and health security in your golden years.
Understanding the difference between Medicare and Medicaid is crucial for eligibility and coverage.
Riitta’s journey from volunteering to becoming a Medicare expert highlights the importance of helping others navigate healthcare options.
Medicare eligibility is based on age, disability, or specific medical conditions, such as end-stage renal disease or Lou Gehrig's disease.
The importance of signing up for Medicare at the right time to avoid penalties and ensure proper coverage.
The distinction between Medicare Advantage plans and Medigap insurance supplements in terms of coverage and benefits.
Long-term care, including custodial care, is not covered by Medicare, emphasizing the need for additional planning and insurance options.

Resources

Riitta Schoenfeld | LinkedIn
Email: [email protected]
Telephone: 516-331-4833

Stacy Francis | LinkedIn | X(Twitter)
Email: [email protected]
39 min
April 30, 2024Terminal Illness and Long-Term Care with Candace Dellacona
Do you know what steps to take and how to keep yourself secure in the face of a devastating medical diagnosis? In this episode of Financially Ever After Widowhood, host Stacy Francis talks to Candace Dellacona, a family lawyer who helps older adults plan for their future. They discuss how to prepare for long-term care and protect your assets, such as ensuring you have a healthcare proxy and power of attorney and considering long-term care insurance. They also dive into why you should have a team of experts, including a geriatric care manager, who can help you find the best care options for your situation.
Planning for the future with a terminal illness diagnosis involves crisis planning to protect assets and ensure proper care for the sick spouse.
Medicaid and Medicare are essential programs to understand when planning for long-term care, with Medicaid serving as a payer of last resort for costs not covered by Medicare.
Long-term care insurance can provide options and financial relief for individuals facing the need for extended care, offering flexibility in choosing care providers and settings.
Advanced directives, including a health care proxy and power of attorney for finances, are crucial documents to have in place after receiving a serious medical diagnosis to ensure proper decision-making and care.
Building a team of professionals, including financial advisors, elder law attorneys, and geriatric care managers, is essential for navigating the complexities of long-term care planning and advocacy.
Support groups can be valuable resources for information and recommendations on care providers, legal assistance, and financial planning strategies for individuals facing medical crises and long-term care needs.

Resources

Candace Dellacona on the Web | LinkedIn | Facebook
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 212-545-1656

Stacy Francis | LinkedIn | X(Twitter)
Email: [email protected]
40 min
April 16, 2024Moving Forward or Moving On after Loss with Nikki Sewell
When you suffer a loss, should you move forward or move on? Nikki Sewell, a therapist with a personal experience of profound loss, offers a unique perspective on navigating grief and moving forward after the death of both her husband and father by the age of 30. With over 17 years of experience in grief counseling, Nikki emphasizes the importance of not just moving on but moving forward in the tapestry of life. Join Stacy Francis on this episode of Financially Ever After as Nikki shares her insights on setting healthy boundaries, practicing self-compassion, and the complexities of re-partnering after loss.
Moving forward, not moving on, is a more empowering approach to dealing with grief and loss, recognizing that past experiences are woven into the tapestry of our lives.
Setting healthy boundaries is crucial in the grieving process, especially for women who may struggle with people-pleasing tendencies and societal expectations.
Self-compassion plays a vital role in navigating grief and trauma, allowing individuals to acknowledge their emotions and prioritize self-care.
The decision to re-partner after losing a spouse is a personal choice, and individuals should focus on their own growth and happiness rather than societal pressures.
Recognizing that grief can manifest in different ways for different people, it's essential to be understanding and supportive of individuals experiencing loss.
Seeking professional therapy and support can help individuals navigate the emotional and financial challenges that come with the loss of a spouse.

Resources

Nikki Sewell | Website | Weekly Blog
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 203-590-9642

Stacy Francis | LinkedIn | X(Twitter)
Email: [email protected]
36 min
April 02, 2024The Healthcare Crisis for Widows with Deb Gordon and Beth Battaglino
Have you considered the true cost of healthcare for women, especially in the face of widowhood? Forbes reports that women pay nearly $15 billion more than men in health costs. In this episode of Financially Ever After, host Stacy Francis is joined by Beth Battaglino, the CEO of Healthy Women, and Deb Gordon, the co-founder of Umbra Health Advocacy. Together, they discuss the significant challenges widows face in healthcare, including hidden and unexpected expenses that can cause severe financial strain. Financial education and proactivity is crucial, along with support from caring experts and advocates, so that you can empower yourself with physical and financial health.
The widowhood effect highlights the increased risk of mortality and prolonged illnesses that women face after losing a spouse, emphasizing the importance of healthcare and preventative care.
Women pay much more for healthcare than men, with women paying more out of pocket due to differences in utilization patterns and services needed.
It is crucial to seek help and ask for assistance in navigating healthcare costs and bills, and take full advantage of the resources available to help reduce financial burdens and provide support.
You can make informed decisions about your healthcare and ensure you are adequately covered if you understand health insurance coverage and benefits. There are numerous experts and advocates who will stand by your side.
Utilizing healthcare flex spending accounts and health savings accounts can help women save money on healthcare expenses and plan for future medical needs.
Hiring patient advocates or utilizing the services of organizations like the Alliance of Professional Health Advocates can provide expert assistance in managing medical bills and navigating the healthcare system.

Resources

Deb Gordon | Umbra Health Advocacy | X(Twitter) | LinkedIn | Alliance of Professional Health Advocates
[email protected]

Beth Battaglino | Healthy Women | X(Twitter) | LinkedIn

Stacy Francis | LinkedIn | X(Twitter)
Email: [email protected]

Articles:
Healthy Women: Understanding Health Insurance Terms
Healthy Women: Choosing a Health Insurance Plan
Healthy Women: Healthcare 101 for Women
Forbes: Women Pay $15 Billion More Than Men for Medical Costs
43 min
March 19, 2024Understanding Your Taxes After A Loss with Samantha Harris, CPA
Losing a spouse is difficult enough, and navigating the complex world of taxes only adds to that burden. In this episode of Financially Ever After, host Stacy Francis is joined by Samantha Harris, CPA, who leads her own tax preparation service company. Together, they provide valuable advice that will help you understand important nuances, file your taxes, and potentially save thousands of dollars in the process. Stacy and Samantha dispel some of the mystery around taxes after a loss, from finding the right professional guidance to understanding Social Security to proactive planning.
Finding the right accountant is crucial for navigating tax implications after losing a spouse. With changes in filing status and potential tax savings opportunities, the right accountant can provide peace of mind and ensure financial stability.
Understanding the different filing statuses, such as qualifying widow or head of household, can significantly impact tax liabilities. Choosing the appropriate filing status can lead to substantial tax savings and ensure compliance with IRS regulations.
Organizing important financial documents and passwords can ease the burden on loved ones in the event of unexpected loss. Maintaining a clear record of financial information and passwords can streamline the process for your family and ensure a smoother transition during a difficult time.
Social Security benefits may or may not be taxable, depending on various factors like additional income sources. Understanding the tax implications of Social Security benefits can help individuals plan effectively for their financial future and optimize their tax situation after the loss of a spouse.
Communication and collaboration between financial advisors, accountants, and clients are essential to ensure comprehensive financial planning and tax strategies tailored to individual needs and circumstances.

Resources

Samantha Harris, CPA on LinkedIn

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 646-629-1381

Stacy Francis on LinkedIn | X(Twitter)
Email: [email protected]
37 min
March 05, 2024Elder Law and Special Needs Planning with Britt Burner
What are the key differences between traditional estate planning and elder law planning, and why is it important to consider elder law planning at a younger age? In this episode of Financially Ever After, host Stacy Francis delves into the intricate world of special needs planning and elder law with guest Britt Burner. Together, they navigate the complexities of legal and financial considerations for people with disabilities and those facing terminal illnesses.
Planning for a disabled child's future requires careful consideration of government benefits and asset protection strategies. Understanding the nuances of Medicaid, SSI, and SSDI is crucial in ensuring the child's financial security and well-being.
Spousal refusal and other legal strategies can help protect assets and qualify for Medicaid in the face of terminal illness or disability. Knowing the options available and seeking personalized advice from an elder law attorney can make a significant difference in navigating these challenging circumstances.
Establishing a Supplemental Needs Trust can safeguard assets for a disabled child without jeopardizing their eligibility for government benefits. By setting up this trust, parents can ensure that their child's financial future is secure and that they continue to receive the necessary support and care.
Personalized advice from an elder law attorney is essential in creating a comprehensive plan for long-term care and asset protection. By consulting with a legal expert specializing in elder law, individuals can develop a tailored strategy that addresses their specific needs and goals, providing peace of mind for the future.
Early engagement in elder law planning, including powers of attorney and healthcare proxies, can provide peace of mind and security for the future. By proactively addressing legal and financial matters, individuals can ensure that their wishes are respected and their affairs are managed according to their preferences and values.

Resources
Britt Burner on LinkedIn
Email: [email protected]
Burner Prudenti Law on Website | Facebook | X | LinkedIn | Instagram | YouTube
National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys

Stacy Francis on LinkedIn | X(Twitter)
Email: [email protected]
42 min
February 20, 2024Financial Security and Fraud Prevention with Kathy Stokes
What if you received a call or email claiming to be from the IRS, demanding immediate payment for back taxes or threatening legal action? How would you react in a moment of heightened emotion and urgency? In this episode of Financially Ever After, Stacy Francis is joined by Kathy Stokes, who brings a wealth of knowledge and experience in combating financial crimes. As the Director of Fraud Prevention Programs at AARP Kathy brings unique insight into the tactics used by criminals, the importance of education in fraud prevention, and the resources available to protect oneself from scams. Discover how to empower yourself against fraud and safeguard your financial well-being.
Understanding that the IRS will not initiate contact through calls or texts unless there is an existing issue is crucial in avoiding potential scams and protecting personal information.
With a significant 400% rise in cyber crimes and fraud reported in recent years, it is more important than ever to stay informed and vigilant to safeguard against financial threats.
AARP's Fraud Prevention Program, led by Kathy Stokes, plays a vital role in educating people about the risks of financial fraud and providing support to combat these crimes.
Eight out of 10 women change financial advisors within a year of their spouse's passing, highlighting the importance of thorough research and due diligence when selecting a new advisor to ensure financial security.
Those facing emotional vulnerability, such as widows, are often targeted by fraudsters due to their heightened emotional state, emphasizing the need for awareness and protection.
Recognizing red flags like unexpected contact, urgency, and heightened emotions can serve as warning signs to identify and avoid potential scams, empowering you to protect yourself.
Regularly monitoring credit reports and implementing credit freezes are proactive measures that can help prevent identity theft and financial fraud, ensuring greater security and peace of mind.
AARP's Fraud Network Helpline, staffed by trained volunteers, offers valuable support and guidance to those facing potential fraud, providing a safe space to seek assistance and report suspicious activities for better protection.

Resources

Kathy Stokes on LinkedIn | AARP | AARP Fraud Watch Network
AARP Fraud Watch Hotline: 877-908-3360

Stacy Francis on LinkedIn | X(Twitter)
Email: [email protected]
FrancisFinancial.com

Reach out to receive a complimentary consultation! Contact Francis Financial at +212-374-9008 or visit Francis Financial today!
42 min

About Financially Ever After Widowhood

From the publisher's feed

Widowhood is the state of being a widow or widower: a person whose spouse has passed away. This is a situation that no one wants to be in, but it is something that can happen, and that you and your family should be prepared for financially. When this kind of painful, life altering event occurs, it's important to have the structure in place for you and your family to be protected, and this year on Financially Ever After Widowhood, Stacy Francis is going to be talking to a diverse lineup of experts, and individuals who have gone through it themselves, to give you the tools and information you need to be prepared.

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