Here are a few things to keep in mind immediately if a loved one passes:
- Secure the deceased’s personal property (vehicle, home, business, etc.).
- Notify the post office.
- Find the original copy of the Last Will and Testament, if available, and make photocopies
- Get several copies of the death certificate.
- Notify the Social Security office.
- Take care of any Medicare details that need attention.
- Contact the deceased’s employer to find out about benefits dispensation.
- Stop health insurance and notify relevant insurance companies.
- Cancel your loved one’s driver’s license, passport, voter’s registration, and clubmemberships.
- Close out email and social media accounts, and shut down websites no longer needed.
- Gather the following information for the probate attorney:
o List of known assets and liabilities o Contact information for the decedant’s financial advisors, insurance agent, tax
professional, and other professional advisors o List of the deceased’s surviving family members, including their contact
information when available. Contact your tax preparer.