Women Face $54 Trillion Wealth Transfer Unprepared and Overwhelmed

“Women outlive men, in general, and the wealth moves to the spouse first and then generationally to daughters. But there’s a readiness gap. Many don’t feel confident about decisions around wealth.”

An estimated $54 trillion will pass mostly to widows, accounting for over 95% of inter-spousal transfers. Female-controlled assets are projected to nearly double from $18 trillion in 2023 to $34 trillion by 2030, representing 38% of U.S. assets. Despite this, 84% of women report lacking confidence in managing inheritances, and 45% feel overwhelmed, according to a 2025 Citizens survey. Financial advisers historically target men, leaving women to navigate complex estate administration often without sufficient support. Companies like Alix and ClearEstate are emerging to assist women through this intricate process, which can demand hundreds of hours and extended timeframes.

This wealth transfer will unfold through 2048, with continued efforts to engage women earlier in financial planning.

Montana’s business community could potentially see implications as women increasingly control assets and make financial decisions.

Women to inherit most of $124T ‘great wealth transfer.’ Many aren’t ready
By Medora Lee, USA TODAY