1. Obtain original Death Certificates

2. Notify Social Security if receiving benefits

3. Locate Original Last Will and Testament

• Check with local probate court to determine if Will was held on deposit.

4. Bank Accounts
   • Determine checking and savings accounts.

5. Check for Safe Deposit Box

• Check with bank to determine if the deceased designated whom could have access; Court Order may have to be obtained.

6. Obtain Copy of Last Federal Income Tax Return that was filed

7. Make a listing off Assets
   • Bank Accounts
   • Online Accounts (PayPal, etc.)
   • Brokerage Accounts
   • Retirement Accounts
   • Real Estate
   • Vehicles
   • Any collections such as coin collections, etc.
   • Personal Property (work tools, jewelry, any items of value)

8. Review for any life insurance policies including any employer provided policies.

9. Determine if there was a retirement plan such as 401-k, Traditional IRA or Roth IRA

10. Locate Titles to any vehicles, trailers or boats

11. Secure any real estate that is owned

12. Notify property insurance agent that real estate (house) is vacant.

13. Notify Credit Card and/or credit bureaus

14. Review any debt that deceased owed such as credit cards, auto loans, etc.

15. Check unclaimed funds

16. File final tax returns to Internal Revenue Service, State and Local Authorities

17. Obtain copies of prior tax returns

• This will be a good road map to help identify any bank accounts and other assets owned by the decedent

18. Notify any investment advisors or insurance agents.

19. Retain copy of final funeral home bill paid (This maybe required for the Local Probate Court)

NOTES

• It is normal practice for the funeral home to notify social security and depending on the date of death, the individual may be entitled to the social security payment for that month or may have to pay back a payment.

• If the deceased had designated beneficiaries on bank account, brokerage account or on their life insurance, then claim forms can be submitted with a certified death certificate.

• If a house is now vacant due to the deceased, it is very important to notify the property insurance company. If there is subsequent property damage and the insurance company was not notified, then they may deny coverage since the property was ‘vacant'.

• If an original Last Will and Testament can not be located, then a copy can be used for Probate Court although there will be more steps involved.