She Strengthens

The Hidden Costs of Losing a Loved One

When someone close to us passes away, the emotional toll can be overwhelming. However, the financial burden that comes with it can be just as devastating. As we navigated the loss of our fathers, we were shocked by the staggering expenses that arose.

The Double Whammy: Money Spent and Lost Income

When a loved one dies, there are two primary categories of financial consideration: the money spent and the income lost. In our case, we experienced both firsthand.

Death #1: The Unexpected Expenses

When my father-in-law passed away in May 2017, we incurred a range of unexpected expenses. These included:

• Travel costs: $396.40 for two one-way tickets from LAX to MCI
• Lost income: $6,000 from a freelance contract and $406 from a part-time job
• Cancelled plans: $200 in unused Disneyland tickets and $300 in non-refundable Airbnb rentals
• Miscellaneous expenses: $20 in gas, $100 in dog sitting fees, and more

Thanks to the kindness of friends and family, we were able to avoid some expenses, such as clothing, lodging, and food costs.

Death #2: More Unforeseen Expenses

When my father passed away in June 2018, we faced another wave of unexpected expenses. These included:

• Travel costs: $774.40 for two one-way tickets from LGA to MCI
• Lost income: $1,100 from a week of missed work
• Cancelled plans: $80 in non-refundable concert tickets
• Miscellaneous expenses: $40 in transportation costs, $175 in additional travel fees, and more

Again, we were fortunate to have friends and family who helped us avoid some expenses, such as hotel costs, food, and transportation from the airport.

The Total Cost

When we tallied up the expenses from both deaths, we were shocked by the total: at least $10,322.60. This amount could have been even higher if we had to pay for funerals, cremation, and burial costs.

The Importance of Emergency Savings

In situations like these, emergency savings can be a lifesaver. Without our emergency fund, we would have been overwhelmed by unpaid bills and growing debt. Instead, we were able to focus on grieving and supporting each other.

Remembering What Matters

While money will never replace the loss of a loved one, having a financial safety net can help alleviate some of the stress and anxiety that comes with it. As we navigated these difficult times, we were reminded of the importance of prioritizing our emotional well-being and financial preparedness.