Losing A Loved One
90-Day Financial Checklist
After the loss of a loved one, knowing what to do next can be hard. Follow this checklist to ensure nothing is forgotten.
Within 30 Days
Secure the Death Certificates
Your loved one's funeral home or health provider can help you get certified copies of the death certificate. You'll need at least 5 copies for various uses throughout this process, but additional copies can also be purchased through your county clerk's office.
Compile Paperwork
Various forms of identification and personal records will need to be collected. For a full list of our recommended documents, check out our Documents Overview page.
Notify the Employer
If your loved one was working, you'll need to determine if they have any unclaimed salary or accrued vacation time. The employer can also notify you if there is any paperwork that needs to be completed on your loved one's behalf. If the employer provided the family's health insurance, that will need to be addressed as well.
Address Estate Plans
If an estate plan is established, you'll need to compile all necessary estate planning documents for the will or trust. Contact a probate attorney to determine if you'll need their help administering the estate.
Notify the Social Security Administration (SSA)
In most cases, the funeral home will notify the SSA of your loved one's passing. If your loved one was retired, you'll still need to contact them directly to discuss survivor benefits and confirm that the estate doesn't owe any repayments for benefits received during the month of death. Confirming your loved one's passing with the SSA will also alleviate the risk of identity theft.
Notify the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA)
Contact the VA if your loved one was enrolled in a life insurance program or was receiving disability payments.
Contact Life Insurance Companies
The payout time for life insurance policies can take multiple weeks. You should also confirm any other life insurance or death benefits with your loved one's employer. If you are not listed on the account, you will need to provide a certified copy of the death certificate, as well as proof of executorship.
Contact Financial Partners
To prevent any fraudulent activity and get started on managing the estate, contact your loved one's financial partners to notify them of their passing. Processes will vary, depending on the financial institution and account details. Be sure to discuss estate plans with a probate attorney prior to distributing any of your loved one's funds.
Meet With A Financial Advisor
We recommend meeting with a financial advisor that can walk you through the process of managing and administering your loved one's estate. Click here to be connected with a member of our Wealth Management team.