Newspaper obituaries notify a large number of people in a short period of time about the death of a community member. Unfortunately, they also provide a list of potential victims to scam artists and thieves seeking emotionally vulnerable and, during memorial services, physically absent targets.
In the anguish and confusion following a spouse's death, you can not be expected to remember websites and phone numbers for organizations that assist uncover the unscrupulous. A few simple guidelines, however, can help you avoid many of the common scams.
The most immediate vulnerability will be an empty house. Through an obituary, a thief can ascertain when the family will be away, and with friends and relatives coming and going, neighbors may assume the person going in while the family is gone has permission to do so.
Treat anything from an unknown party with suspicion. Invoices, calls involving orders for products or services, investment opportunities and claims for money owed can all be scams looking to part distracted grieving survivors with their cash. Pay those bills you know are legitimate - mortgage, utilities, credit cards, car payments. Set everything else aside. And don't forget that companies that pressure you to make decisions or send money during a difficult time probably don't have good reasons for doing so.
Consider a checks-and-balances path to decision making, especially with it comes to finances. Ask a family member, friend or trusted advisor such as an accountant, attorney or financial professional to take a look at invoices and other claims before you send money. You will still have power over your money, and you'll have a second opinion from someone you trust.
If you and your spouse did not have existing relationships with an attorney, accountant or financial advisor, do your homework before selecting someone during a time of crisis. Your best source will be referrals from friends, family members and associates. Interview at least two or three before deciding on a professional.
Many professionals who work with widows and widowers advise to wait at least a year to make major, irrevocable decisions such as selling or purchasing a home. Beware of people pressuring you to make such a decision within months of your spouse's death.
In the anguish and confusion following a spouse's death, you can not be expected to remember websites and phone numbers for organizations that assist uncover the unscrupulous. A few simple guidelines, however, can help you avoid many of the common scams.
The most immediate vulnerability will be an empty house. Through an obituary, a thief can ascertain when the family will be away, and with friends and relatives coming and going, neighbors may assume the person going in while the family is gone has permission to do so.
Treat anything from an unknown party with suspicion. Invoices, calls involving orders for products or services, investment opportunities and claims for money owed can all be scams looking to part distracted grieving survivors with their cash. Pay those bills you know are legitimate - mortgage, utilities, credit cards, car payments. Set everything else aside. And don't forget that companies that pressure you to make decisions or send money during a difficult time probably don't have good reasons for doing so.
Consider a checks-and-balances path to decision making, especially with it comes to finances. Ask a family member, friend or trusted advisor such as an accountant, attorney or financial professional to take a look at invoices and other claims before you send money. You will still have power over your money, and you'll have a second opinion from someone you trust.
If you and your spouse did not have existing relationships with an attorney, accountant or financial advisor, do your homework before selecting someone during a time of crisis. Your best source will be referrals from friends, family members and associates. Interview at least two or three before deciding on a professional.
Many professionals who work with widows and widowers advise to wait at least a year to make major, irrevocable decisions such as selling or purchasing a home. Beware of people pressuring you to make such a decision within months of your spouse's death.
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