As a surviving spouse, you might find yourself overwhelmed by all the administrative to-do items that you have to handle soon after the death of your spouse. There's a lot to do, much of which you've never done before. And you're supposed to get it all done while grieving.This book walks you through it, in plain language.Part One: Immediate Next Steps1. Learn the Terms (The Estate Administration Process)2. Getting Organized3. Notifying Necessary Parties4. Initial Responsibilities as Personal Representative5. Updating Your Own Estate PlanPart Two: Intermediate Next Steps6. Social Security Planning7. Further Responsibilities as Personal Representative8. Handling Inherited Retirement Accounts9. Additional Options as a Beneficiary and Surviving Spouse10. Tax Returns11. Reassessing Your Own Finances12. Reassess Your Portfolio13. Finding Professional AssistanceConclusion: What's Next?Appendix A: Does an Inheritance Create Taxable Income?Appendix B: Social Security Widow(er) Benefit Math DetailsAppendix C: Dealing with Trusts