The First Few Days Matter
When a loved one passes away, grief can make it difficult to think clearly. Yet there are several time-sensitive tasks that need attention in the first days and weeks. Having a clear list of what to do can provide structure during an incredibly difficult time.
Here are the five most important things to handle right away.
1. Obtain Certified Death Certificates
This is the single most important administrative task in the early days. You will need certified copies of the death certificate for almost every step of the probate and estate settlement process.
How many to order: Request at least 10-15 certified copies. You will need them for banks, insurance companies, government agencies, the court, and more. It is much easier to order extras now than to request more later.
Where to get them: The funeral home typically handles the initial order. You can also request additional copies from the county vital records office or your state's department of health.
Why certified copies matter: Most institutions require an original certified copy with a raised seal, not a photocopy. Some will keep the copy you provide, which is why you need multiples.
2. Secure the Deceased's Property
Take steps to protect all property belonging to the deceased:
- Home: Make sure the residence is locked and secure. If the person lived alone, consider changing locks or adding a security measure.
- Vehicles: Know where all vehicles are located and ensure they are parked safely.
- Valuables: Secure jewelry, cash, important documents, and other portable valuables. Consider taking photos of valuable items for insurance purposes.
- Mail: Begin forwarding mail to a responsible party or check the mailbox regularly. Important financial and legal correspondence will continue to arrive.
- Digital accounts: If you have access to the deceased's phone or computer, do not factory reset or delete anything. These may contain important information about accounts and assets you are not yet aware of.
3. Notify Key Parties
Several parties need to be informed promptly:
- Employer: If the deceased was employed, contact their employer. There may be final paychecks, life insurance through work, retirement benefits, or other compensation owed.
- Social Security Administration: Call 1-800-772-1213 to report the death. If the deceased was receiving Social Security benefits, payments need to stop. The surviving spouse may be eligible for survivor benefits.
- Insurance companies: Notify health insurance, life insurance, auto insurance, and homeowner's insurance carriers. Life insurance claims should be filed as soon as possible.
- Banks and financial institutions: While you may not be able to access accounts immediately, notifying the bank prevents unauthorized transactions and begins the process of securing the accounts.
4. Locate Important Documents
Start gathering essential documents. You will need many of these throughout the probate process:
- The will: Check the deceased's home, safe deposit box, and with their attorney. The original will is needed for probate.
- Trust documents: If a living trust exists, locate the trust agreement and any amendments.
- Financial records: Bank statements, investment account statements, tax returns (at least the last 3 years), pension or retirement account information.
- Insurance policies: Life insurance, health insurance, homeowner's/renter's insurance, auto insurance.
- Property documents: Deeds, mortgage statements, vehicle titles.
- Personal identification: Birth certificate, Social Security card, passport, marriage certificate.
- Military records: DD-214 or other discharge papers if the deceased was a veteran. Veterans' benefits may be available.
5. Consult with Professionals (But Do Not Rush)
In the first week or two, it is helpful to have initial conversations with professionals who can guide you:
- Probate attorney: Even if you plan to handle probate yourself, an initial consultation can help you understand what is ahead. Many attorneys offer free initial consultations.
- Accountant or CPA: The deceased's final tax return will need to be filed, and there may be estate tax obligations. An accountant can advise on deadlines and requirements.
- Financial advisor: If the deceased had investments, a financial advisor can help you understand what is in the portfolio and any immediate concerns.
Important: Do not feel pressured to make major financial decisions in the first few weeks. Take time to understand the full picture before committing to anything.
What Comes Next
After handling these immediate priorities, the longer-term probate process begins. This includes filing with the probate court, notifying creditors, inventorying all assets, paying debts, and ultimately distributing the estate to beneficiaries.
Every estate is different, and the specific steps depend on your state's laws, the types of assets involved, and whether a will exists. SwiftProbate can help you create a personalized roadmap so you know exactly what needs to happen and when.
Take It One Step at a Time
It is completely normal to feel overwhelmed. You do not have to do everything at once. Focus on the most urgent items first, ask for help from family and friends, and remember that most deadlines in probate are measured in weeks and months, not days.
The most important thing is to take care of yourself while you take care of these responsibilities.