Guide
What to do when someone dies
The first 24 hours, the first two weeks, the first six months. A clear timeline of what to handle after a death.
Within the first day, get a legal pronouncement of death and notify close family. Within two weeks, order at least ten certified death certificates, secure the home and assets, and locate the will. Within six months, open probate if needed, notify agencies, and close accounts.
Step by step
First 24 hours
Get a legal pronouncement of death, notify close family, and contact the funeral home.
First week
Order ten to twelve certified death certificates, secure the home, mail, and pets, and locate the will.
First month
Notify Social Security, the employer, banks, and the mortgage lender. Open probate if needed.
First six months
Inventory and value assets, pay creditors, transfer titles, and file the final tax return.
Close out
Distribute remaining assets, cancel credit cards and subscriptions, and stop incoming mail.
Common questions
How many death certificates do I need?
Order ten to twelve. Banks, life insurance, the SSA, the IRS, and most title transfers each want an original certified copy.
Who do I notify first?
Social Security and the employer in the first week. Banks, brokerages, and the mortgage lender follow as you gather paperwork.