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What to Do When Someone Passes Away

learning
February 03, 2025•3 min read

What to Do When Someone Passes Away

Losing a loved one is never easy, and on top of the emotional toll, there are a lot of financial and legal matters to handle. It can feel overwhelming, but taking it step by step can make the process more manageable. Here’s what to focus on after someone passes away.

1. Order Death Certificates

You’ll need multiple certified copies of the death certificate—these are required for things like insurance claims, transferring assets, and closing accounts. You can get them from your state’s vital records office, so check their website for instructions.

2. Make Funeral Arrangements

If there are pre-arranged funeral plans, check those first. Otherwise, you’ll need to:

  • Notify the funeral home or cremation provider.

  • Decide between burial or cremation and choose a casket or urn.

  • Arrange for a funeral or memorial service.

  • Handle obituaries, transportation, and cemetery fees.

Funerals can be expensive, so if cost is a concern, look into life insurance policies or prepaid funeral plans that might cover some expenses.

3. Check for a Will or Trust

This is a big one. If the person left a will or trust, it determines how their estate is handled.

  • If there's a will → The estate usually goes through probate, a court-supervised process where assets are distributed according to the will.

  • If there's a trust → The estate should avoid probate, and the trustee distributes assets based on the instructions in the trust.

4. What Happens in Probate?

Probate is the legal process of settling the deceased’s estate. The court:

  • Verifies the will (if there is one).

  • Appoints an executor to manage the estate.

  • Handles outstanding debts, taxes, and asset distribution.

The complexity depends on state laws and the size of the estate. If there’s no will, assets are distributed based on state laws (which may not align with desired outcomes).

5. Transferring Property & Assets

If the deceased owned real estate or other assets, the title needs to be transferred to the new owner(s). This might involve:

  • Filing a new deed with the county.

  • Transferring ownership through probate or trust administration.

  • Updating financial accounts and vehicle registrations.

Each state has different rules, so it’s wise to consult an estate attorney for guidance.

6. Avoiding Inheritance Battles

Disagreements over who gets what can get messy. Having a clear will or trust helps, but conflicts can still arise. If tensions are high:

  • Mediation can help resolve disputes outside of court.

  • A solid estate plan with clear instructions minimizes confusion.

  • Legal intervention may be needed in extreme cases.

7. Talk to a Professional

Handling an estate is complicated, and legal or tax mistakes can be costly. It's smart to consult professionals like:

  • Estate planning attorneys (to guide you through probate and legal requirements).

  • Financial advisors (to help manage inherited assets).

  • Tax professionals (to navigate estate taxes and filings).

  • Insurance brokers (to handle life insurance claims).

Final Thoughts

Losing someone is hard, and dealing with their financial affairs can feel overwhelming. The key is to take it step by step—and don’t be afraid to ask for help. Whether it’s family, an attorney, or a financial professional, having the right support can make all the difference.

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