WHAT TO DO FOLLOWING THE SERVICES
- Prepare list of distant persons to be notified by letter and/or printed notice, and decide which to send to each.
- Prepare and send appropriate acknowledgements (can be a simple written note, pre-printed acknowledgements, or some of each). Include "thank you's" to those who have given their time as well.
- When applicable, locate the will and notify lawyer and executor.
- If Social Security checks (or any others) are automatic deposit, notify the bank of the death and the institution making the deposit.
- If deceased was living alone, notify utilities and landlord and tell post office where to send mail.
- Check carefully for life and casualty insurance and/or death benefits from other entities including Social Security, employer or former employers, credit union, trade union fraternal organizations, and the Department of Veterans Affairs. File claims when applicable.
- Check on any potential survivors benefits from the above sources and apply as applicable.
- Check on all debts and installment payments, including credit cards. Some may carry insurance clauses that will cancel them. If there is to be a delay in meeting payments, consult with creditors and ask for more time before the payments are due.
- File any remaining health insurance claims, and notify carrier that death has ocurred.
- Notify home, business, and automobile insurance companies of the death and cancel policies as appropriate.
- Make arrangements to update your will or living trust.
- When appropriate, according to Probate Code, arrange for revising your titles or transferring assets (real estate, automobiles, securities, etc.) and closing accounts. This may include correcting the tax identification number associated with an account which was in the name of the deceased.
- Change beneficiaries on insurance policies, retirement accounts, savings bonds, etc.
- If needed, contact a Family Service Counselor to order a burial site marker.
- Seek a Family Service Counselor to assist you in planning for your own funeral, burial or cremation. Fill out and sign all documents in advance.
Additional Information: Settling an Estate, Social Security, Veteran's Affairs