In our office, we often meet people for the first time soon after a loved one has passed. It’s a confusing, stressful time for all, so I thought I’d share a list of steps to follow in the unfortunate event that you need it. Tuck it away and let it be something you can turn to if the time comes.
When a loved one passes:
Ask for a legal pronouncement of death. If your loved one died in a hospital, nursing home, or under hospice care, medical staff should take care of this step. If your relative passes at home, you'll need a legal/medical professional’s pronouncement.
Determine pre-arranged funeral and burial plans. Ideally, you discussed this before your loved one’s passing, but if not, call a family meeting and ask for input about what your loved one would desire for his or her funeral and burial.
Request that mail be forwarded. Your loved one’s mail is a trove of information about subscriptions, creditors, and other accounts you’ll need to give attention to in the coming weeks. In the first few days after a death, however, set it aside. There will be time to go through it later.
Get at least ten copies of the death certificate. You will need multiple copies of the death certificate to close bank accounts, file insurance claims, and register the death with government agencies. The funeral home can request copies on your behalf, or you can order them from the office of vital statistics.
Locate the will and the executor. Ideally, you know where it is. If not, look for it where important papers were kept or in a safety deposit box. The will should name the executor (the person who will manage the settling of the estate).
Meet with a probate attorney. A conversation with an attorney will help you feel more confident about the steps you may need to take next.
Saying goodbye is never easy, but when one’s affairs are in order, the remaining family’s burden is much more manageable. If you’ve recently lost someone dear to you and you’re unsure of your next steps, we are here to help.
