After Death Checklist

• Seek the advice of an accountant or tax advisor about filing the deceased’s tax return for the year of the death.
   

• Look into veteran’s benefits, if your loved one was a veteran. You may be able to get assistance with the funeral, burial plot, or other benefits.

​

• Obtain copies of the death certificate.
   

• If your loved one is receiving Social Security benefits, notify your local Social Security office of the death, since these benefits must stop. Overpayment will result in a difficult process of repayment.
   

• Contact your loved one’s health insurance company or employer regarding ending coverage for the deceased while continuing coverage for any dependents if needed.
   

• Contact the insurance company regarding all life insurance policies.
   

• If the deceased was working, contact his or her employer for information on pension plans, credit unions, and union death benefits. You will need a certified copy of the death certificate for each claim.
   

• Return credit cards of the deceased with a certified copy of the death certificate.
   

• Make arrangements to transfer names on any joint bank accounts.
   

• Make sure important bills, such as mortgage payments, are transferred and continue to be paid.