Mercer Advisors
Sharing Knowledge

Question

Should I keep or sell our investment accounts after a spouse’s death?

Answer

Deciding whether to keep or sell investments after losing a spouse should align with your long-term financial goals and risk tolerance. Consider potential tax implications, such as capital gains taxes, and whether you feel confident managing your accounts independently. Consulting with a wealth advisor who has experience working with widows can help provide clarity and a strategy tailored to your needs.

Related FAQs

Do I need to file taxes differently as a widow?

How do I update my estate plan after a spouse’s death?

What steps should I take right after my spouse dies?
Women & Wealth Widows FAQs
Last Updated May 14, 2026
Previous Next

Further Learning

Estate Planning Article

Illinois Estate Tax: What High-Net-Worth Families Need To Know

Illinois’ $4 million estate tax exemption, far below the $15 million federal threshold, can expose high-net-worth families to unexpected state tax bills without proactive planning.

man meeting with a financial advisor in office, shaking hands
What Clients Ask Article

Questions to Ask When Choosing a Financial Advisor

Discover the essential questions to ask when choosing a financial advisor — covering fiduciary duty, compensation models, and team approach.

Investment Management Article

Financial Planning Is a Prerequisite to Successful Investing

At Mercer Advisors, financial planning often serves as the starting point for investing decisions. It is the foundation of our evidence-based investing principles.

Estate Planning Guide

The Family Guide to Estate Planning: Helping To Protect What You’ve Built Across Generations

Explore wills, trusts, beneficiary traps, POAs, estate tax changes, inherited IRAs, gifting, and family conversations in one comprehensive planning guide.

Back to Sharing Knowledge

About Mercer Advisors

We exist so you don’t have to worry about money. For more than 40 years, we’ve taken the sophisticated, time-tested approach that many ultra-high net worth individuals use to help manage their financial lives and made it accessible to more families.

Explore Our Solutions

Financial Planning
Estate Planning
Tax Planning & Preparation
Insurance Solutions
Investment Management
Trustee Services

Want to learn more about Mercer Advisors?

Let’s Talk