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First steps after someone dies

Settling an estate · 4 min readDraft edited

After someone dies, it can be difficult to know which arrangements and documents need attention. This guide introduces common early tasks. The right order and any deadlines depend on the circumstances and local requirements.

The First 24-48 Hours

Immediate Steps

Ask someone you trust to help coordinate arrangements and keep track of questions. Check with the professionals involved about anything that needs prompt attention.

  1. Ask for support. A family member or friend can help make calls and keep notes.
  2. Notify close family and friends. Start with immediate family, then close friends. You don't have to call everyone — ask someone to help spread the word.
  3. Contact a funeral home. If your loved one died at home or in hospice, the funeral home will arrange transport. If they passed at a hospital, the staff will guide you.
  4. Locate important documents. Look for a will, trust documents, life insurance policies, and any pre-planned funeral arrangements.
  5. Secure the home. If your loved one lived alone, make sure their home is locked and secure. Collect mail. Adjust thermostats.

If There's No Pre-Arrangement

If your loved one didn't pre-plan their funeral or memorial, you'll need to make some decisions:

  • Burial vs. cremation
  • Funeral home selection (a funeral home directory can help)
  • Memorial service logistics
  • Obituary details

The First Week

Legal and Administrative

  • Obtain death certificates. Order at least 10-15 certified copies — you'll need them for banks, insurance, government agencies, and more. Your funeral home typically handles this.
  • Contact an estate attorney. If there's a will, it may need to go through probate. An attorney can advise on next steps.
  • Notify the employer. If the deceased was employed, contact their HR department about final paychecks, benefits, and life insurance.
  • Contact Social Security. Report the death to SSA at 1-800-772-1213.

Financial

  • Notify banks and financial institutions. Do not close accounts until you've spoken with a probate attorney.
  • Contact life insurance companies. Gather policy numbers and begin the claims process.
  • Notify credit card companies. Request accounts be flagged as "deceased."

The First Month

Estate Settlement

This is where the work of settling the estate really begins. An estate settlement professional or probate attorney can be invaluable.

  • File the will with probate court (if applicable)
  • Apply for Letters Testamentary (this gives the executor legal authority)
  • Create an inventory of assets — a personal property appraiser can help with valuations
  • Notify government agencies — IRS, DMV, voter registration, passport office
  • Cancel subscriptions and memberships
  • Manage digital accounts — email, social media, online banking

Property Decisions

If the deceased owned a home or significant personal property:

  • Consider hiring an estate sale company — find one near you
  • Get a real estate appraisal if the home will be sold
  • Hire a senior move manager if a surviving spouse needs to relocate

3-12 Months After

Ongoing Settlement

  • File final tax returns — an estate CPA specializes in this
  • Distribute assets to beneficiaries per the will or trust
  • Close out the estate with the probate court
  • Keep records of all distributions and expenses

Taking Care of Yourself

  • Seek grief support. A grief counselor or bereavement support group can provide comfort during this difficult time.
  • Don't rush major decisions. Financial advisors typically recommend waiting at least a year before making significant life changes.
  • Accept help. Friends and family want to support you — let them.

Finding the Right Professionals

You don't have to do this alone. Greatway connects you with verified professionals who specialize in estate services:

Every professional on Greatway is reviewed by real clients, so you can find trusted help with confidence.

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