Checklist: What to Do When a Loved One Passes

Chances are, if you’re reading this article you’ve either experienced loss or are preparing for loss. The loss of a loved one can be overwhelming – both emotionally and practically – and we understand the many responsibilities that may suddenly fall on your shoulders.   

This article contains a checklist that is intended to serve as a helpful guide as you navigate the estate and financial matters ahead. Please know that not all items listed will apply to every situation, and that’s okay. Our Wealth Management & Trust team is here to help answer questions, coordinate with other professionals, and provide guidance tailored to your needs. 

Week 1-2: Immediate Tasks 

• Obtain certified copies of the death certificate (typically 5-10) 
• Arrange for funeral or memorial services 
• Secure the home and personal property 
• Notify family, close friends, and employer 
• Ask the employer about continuing medical benefits 
• For private health insurance policies, contact the insurance company to remove your loved one from a family policy, buy a new policy, or cancel the policy 
• Care for dependents and pets 
• If there are minor children, notify their school 
• Begin gathering important documents (use the list below to help gather documents) 

As you have time, begin to gather any of the following applicable documents:  

• Death Certificate (multiple certified copies, typically 5-10) 
• Original Last Will and Testament (and any Codicils, which amends or revokes parts of a will) 
• Trust Documents (Revocable, Irrevocable, etc.) 
• Marriage Certificate 
• Divorce Decrees and/or Child Support Documents 
• Birth Certificates of Children/Heirs 
• Social Security Card 
• Military Discharge Papers 
• Deeds to Real Estate 
• Vehicle Records Including Titles and Loan Documents 
• Life Insurance Policies 
• Health Insurance Policies 
• Current Bank Account Statements 
• Investment Account Statements (brokerage, mutual fund, annuities, etc.) 
• Retirement Account Statements (IRAs, 401(k)s, pension plans, etc.) 
• Employer Equity Compensation Plan Statements (Stock Options or Restricted Stock) 
• Recent Tax Returns (last 2-3 years) 
• Household Budget Documents (Utility and Service Bills) 
• Beneficiary Information on Financial Accounts and Insurance 
• Business Agreements or Interests 
• Safe Deposit Box Inventory and Key 

Week 2-4: Legal and Financial Notifications 

• Contact attorney, financial advisor, and tax advisor 
• Begin probate process (if applicable) 
• Apply for Letters Testamentary 
• Notify Social Security Administration 
• Notify Veterans Affairs (if applicable) 
• Notify insurance companies and begin the claims process for life insurance 
• Notify banks, brokerages, and other financial institutions 
• Forward mail via USPS to executor or trusted individual 
• Update homeowners’ insurance and secure vacant property 

Month 2-3: Organize the Estate 

• Open an estate bank account 
• Inventory all assets and debts 
• Order property appraisals (if required) 
• Close unused credit cards and accounts 
• Cancel unnecessary services or subscriptions 
• Continue working with attorney or executor 
• Notify all beneficiaries and heirs 
• File for survivor benefits (Social Security, VA, pension, etc.) 
• Notify the 3 credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) 
• Work with CPA or Tax Advisor to prepare final returns 

Final Steps: 

• Pay final bills, debts, and taxes from estate funds. 
• File final income tax return and estate tax return (if required) 
• Distribute assets according to the Will or Trust 
• Keep all records and copies of transactions for your files 

Optional But Helpful: 

• Create a timeline or spreadsheet to track progress 
• Keep a log of who you talk to, including names and dates 
• Organize all paperwork in a binder or digital folder 

Our Wealth Management & Trust Team is Here for You 

We understand that losing a loved one brings not only emotional hardship but also a great deal of responsibility. Please remember that you don’t have to navigate this alone. Our Wealth Management & Trust team is here to walk alongside you – to answer questions, coordinate next steps, and provide support tailored to your unique situation. If you need assistance at any point, we encourage you to reach out at southside.com/wealth.  

Download a PDF version of this checklist by clicking here.  

The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial advice. Before making any financial decisions, it is strongly recommended that you consult with a certified financial planner™, attorney, accountant, or another trusted financial professional to assess your individual circumstances. 

We want you to know that investment products provided by Southside Wealth Management & Trust: Are Not Insured by the FDIC or Any Federal Government Agency | May Lose Value | Are Subject to Risk | Are Not Bank Guaranteed | Are Not Deposits