After a death: your step-by-step checklist

Last reviewed 2026-11-01

Short answer: You do not need to do everything at once. Start with the first 24 hours, then work through the first week, first month and the months after. Tick items as you go; your progress stays in this browser, and you can print the list.

General information only, not legal or financial advice. Rules vary by state; confirm details with a licensed professional. If you are in crisis, call or text 988.

Not everything needs doing now.

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First 24 hours (0/7)

Only a few things need attention today. The rest can wait.

Make sure the death has been pronouncedHospice nurse for an expected death at home, 911 for an unexpected one. In a hospital or facility, staff handle this.
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Tell the closest familyAsk one or two people to pass the news along so you do not have to make every call.
Arrange care for children, dependents and petsA neighbor or relative can help for a day or two.
Contact a funeral home or cremation provider for transportYou can ask for prices before you agree to anything. Providers must give prices by phone.
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Look for written wishes or a pre-arranged planCheck a desk, a safe, an email folder, or ask the family doctor or attorney.
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Secure the homeLock up, collect valuables and medications, and ask someone to check on the home if it will be empty.
Eat, drink water and restAsk someone to stay with you or check in. If you feel unsafe, call or text 988.

First week (0/8)

Gather papers, decide on a service, and let people help.

Order certified copies of the death certificateBanks, insurers and agencies often each want a certified copy. Ask each one whether a photocopy is enough.
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Confirm the funeral home will report the death to Social SecurityFuneral directors usually do. If not, you must report it yourself.
Decide what kind of service you want and whenCremation, burial, a gathering now or later. You do not need to decide everything at once.
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Write or approve an obituaryShort notices are fine. Newspapers may charge by length.
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Locate key documentsWill, insurance policies, account statements, Social Security number, birth and marriage records, military discharge papers.
Notify the employerAsk about final pay, benefits and any life insurance through work.
If a veteran, ask about burial benefitsThe VA can explain what is available for burial and memorial items.
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Say yes to offers of helpMeals, rides, and watching the phone are real help. Keep a short list of what you need.

First month (0/8)

Notify the organizations that need to know, one at a time.

Notify government agenciesSocial Security, Medicare, the state motor vehicle office, the VA or pension office if relevant. You will usually need the person's Social Security number and a certified death certificate.
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Ask about the Social Security one-time $255 paymentAn eligible spouse or child may qualify. It must be applied for within 2 years of the death.
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Contact banks, credit card companies and credit bureausAsk what each one needs. Do not pay debts out of your own money before you understand the estate.
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File life insurance and pension claimsEach insurer or plan administrator has its own claim form and timeline.
Talk to an attorney if there is a will, property or debtsProbate rules vary by state. A short consult can tell you what you need.
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Cancel subscriptions and recurring billsStart with the ones that charge money. Take screenshots of the accounts first.
Make a list of phone, email and social accountsDecide what to save, such as photos, before anything is closed.
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Redirect or sort the mailAsk your local post office about options. Watch for bills and benefit letters.

Months 3 to 12 (0/8)

The slower tasks, and looking after yourself.

Arrange the final tax returnsA final income tax return is usually required. A tax professional can help.
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Follow the probate steps with your attorneyTimelines depend on the state and the estate.
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Transfer vehicle and property titlesAsk the motor vehicle office and the county recorder what documents they accept.
Close or retitle remaining accountsKeep a record of every call: date, name, and what was said.
Plan a memorial, burial or scattering when you are readyThere is no deadline for a memorial gathering. Ashes can be kept as long as you like.
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Plan for the first holidays and the first anniversaryGive yourself permission to change traditions.
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Look into grief supportGroups, counselors and friends can all help. If you are in crisis, call or text 988.
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Consider writing down your own wishesMany people do this after a loss.
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More detail: paperwork, estate and probate, what to do when a loved one passes away.

First 24 hours (0/7)

First week (0/8)

First month (0/8)

Months 3 to 12 (0/8)

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