After a Loss — Practical Steps

The administrative load of grief, in the order it actually comes up. Take it slow.

First Days

• Get 10+ certified copies of the death certificate
• Notify immediate family and close friends
• Contact funeral home or coordinate disposition
• Locate the will and any pre-paid arrangements
• Secure the home, vehicles, and pets

First Weeks

• Notify employer for benefits and final pay
• Notify Social Security (or funeral home does this)
• Notify life insurance carriers
• Notify banks, brokerages, and retirement accounts
• Notify mortgage holder and landlord
• Forward mail to executor
• Cancel or transfer subscriptions and memberships
• Begin probate process with attorney if needed

First Months

• File final tax return for the deceased
• Transfer titles for vehicles and property
• Close or memorialize social media accounts
• Cancel driver's license and voter registration
• Update your own beneficiaries and will

Self-Care

• Accept help with meals, errands, childcare
• Find a grief support group or counselor when ready
• Be patient with yourself — grief is non-linear