Survivor's Checklist
Making the necessary arrangements after a loved one’s death is never easy. Besides the funeral, there are dozens of details that must be attended to in the first few months and you need to be prepared. Of course, the best advice is to sit down and discuss options before a loved one’s physical or mental condition creates a crisis. Have them prepare a power of attorney, health care proxy, living will and will, and make sure you have a basic understanding of their financial obligations (bills, bank accounts, insurance policies, etc.). This way you are fully aware of their wishes and are ready to act should the unspeakable happen.
You can use the following steps to help prepare for and handle the various details after you’re loved one has passed away. (This is not a comprehensive list; other contingencies may arise.)
1. Request certified originals of the death certificate: About 15 should suffice. Some agencies or offices may accept photocopies but most require a certified copy. These can be obtained from the funeral home or Vital Records/Health Office.
2. Collect Legal Documents: Determine whether the deceased left a will, trust or other documents to take effect upon death. This will effect how the estate administration should proceed. If there is no will or trust, state laws will govern the administration process. It should be noted that powers of attorney that may have been used while the person was alive terminate upon death.
a. If the deceased did not leave a will (this is referred to as dying “intestate”), contact the Clerk of Court in the county of residence. Do not pay any bills until you have contacted the Clerk of Court.
b. You may also need to locate birth certificate, marriage license, social security number, Veterans Administration number and record, a list of employer fringe benefits and their last three tax returns.
3. Individuals Cared for by the Deceased: Minor children or incapacitated adults who were being cared for by the deceased must have someone else appointed to take care of their needs. This person can be designated in the deceased’s will. Otherwise, a court will appoint a guardian and/or conservator for the minor or incapacitated adult.
4. Inventory of Assets: It’s important to locate all of the deceased’s assets and ensure that they are protected and sufficiently insured (make sure to check safe deposit boxes as well). Secure and inventory family heirlooms, antiques and other personal property items of value. Document the inventory by taking photos or videos. If the deceased lived alone, it may be wise to change the locks on the home.
5. Payment of Creditors: Determine that there are sufficient assets in the estate to cover funeral expenses and other debts before paying any bills. If some creditors are paid and it is later determined that there are insufficient assets to pay others, there can be problems.
6. Pay Bills: The estate will need to pay any outstanding bills. This may mean going through paper bills, but with the increasing prevalence of online bills and automatic monthly payment, you may need to contact each company and/or financial institution directly.
7. Insurance Policies: Contact all insurance companies as soon as possible to obtain a death claim form, file claims and update the beneficiaries on the policies. Life insurance proceeds can generally be paid directly to the named beneficiary. Complete the form and return it along with a certified copy of death certificate and policy.
a. The deceased’s policies may include:
i. Life insurance
ii. Mortgage or loan insurance
iii. Accident insurance
iv. Health insurance
v. Auto insurance
vi. Credit card insurance
vii. Various types of insurance provided by the deceased’s employer
8. Financial Accounts: Contact banks to verify status of checking, savings and other accounts. Also, ask about safe deposit boxes. If you had a joint account with the deceased, it will automatically pass to you. Check with the financial institution to change the title and signature card on the account. Check with your stockbroker to change stock or bond titles. If the account was held in the deceased’s name alone, those assets will have to go through probate.
9. Credit Cards: Contact all credit card companies to let them know of the death and to ensure that no one uses the card under the deceased’s name. Check whether any of the credit cards had a life insurance policy. Cancel any credit cards that were held exclusively in the name of the deceased. Any payments due on these cards should be paid by the estate. Order a report from the credit card bureau to ensure you’re aware of all credit cards under the deceased’s name.
10. Re-title ownership documents: If the deceased owned a car, house or other property, you will need to update the titles and deeds. Check with your state Division of Motor Vehicles or County Assessor’s Office to obtain the appropriate paperwork.
11. Social Security: Contact the social security office to determine what benefit, if any, may be available for the surviving spouse and/or minor children. If the deceased was receiving social security benefits, do not deposit any checks after the death.
12. File Tax Returns: Often, state and federal tax returns including the deceased’s final 1040 income tax return, the estate or trust’s 1041 income tax return and an estate tax return must be prepared. Make a decision on who is to file appropriate tax returns.
