This may be what you are already beginning to understand. Losses on your investments are first used to offset capital gains of the same type. So, short-term losses are first deducted against short-term gains, and long-term losses are deducted against long-term gains. Net losses of either type can then be deducted against the other kind of gain.
A short-term capital loss carryover first offsets short-term capital gains incurred in the carryover year. If a net short- term capital loss results, this loss next offsets net long-term capital gains incurred in the carryover year, and then ordinary income, up to the $3,000 maximum. As indicated by Mike9241 short term losses are used up first.
As far as your loss carryover from your deceased husband's business and if you filed jointly in the year of death, it would make sense the loss carryforward would continue with your return. That being said, you can choose your action about that, however the losses are used in a specific order as noted.
@ggmauney62
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