Preparing for the Death of a Loved One: Things to Consider

Preparing for the death of a loved one isn't easy, but anything you can do to stay organized might help relieve some stress. Creating a checklist might feel like a daunting task, but it can be an incredibly empowering exercise. While the person you love may be gone, the business of closing out a life in the midst of grief can be overwhelming without a plan.

These tips can help you and your loved ones create a checklist for what to do when someone dies. You can create the checklist together, devise a plan to share the bureaucratic tasks that come with someone's passing—and avoid any surprises at a time when surprises aren't what you need.

What to do before a loved one dies

Your checklist to prepare for the death of a loved one should start with some simple tasks. While they're still alive, gather important documents, discuss plans and ensure you have everything you need set aside in an accessible location.

1 Gather estate planning documents

Estate planning can include documenting a will or trust, advance medical directives, and life insurance. You might also consider making a list of all financial and online accounts with usernames and passwords so you have easy access. Make sure beneficiaries are correct, and be sure to discuss end-of-life wishes like medical decisions. This is an ideal time to talk with fiduciaries—like the executor of a will or trustee of a trust—to make sure they understand their roles. Be sure to store this information in a secure location in your home.

2 Discuss funeral arrangements

To avoid being caught off guard after a loved one dies, you can take the time now to speak with funeral homes and explore cremation or other end-of-life options. Compare costs while you can, and give yourself the time to ask questions so you can approach funeral planning with less stress.

3 Make a list of contacts

Asking your loved one for a list of people they'd like to be notified in the event of their death can offer extra peace of mind. Instead of stressing that you've forgotten someone, you can rest easy knowing that you've already made an accessible list of contacts.

4 Consider cash

If you haven't prepaid for funeral and other end-of-life arrangements, consider the cash you'll need to set aside to pay for these expenses.

What to do after a loved one dies

The second part of your checklist should include important personal and administrative steps to take after your loved one has passed.

1 Get the death certificate

Without it, you'll be unable to proceed with most steps you need to take. The funeral home you use should be able to provide you with several copies.

2 Make funeral arrangements

With the plan you've already made, set a date for a funeral or memorial service. Once you know the date, begin notifying people who need to know. Don't be shy about leaning on family members for help.

3 Set the estate plan in motion

The executor or trustee will need to go through the necessary legal processes to adhere to your loved one's estate plan and distribute assets accordingly. While trusts avoid probate, a will must be filed for probate.

4 Start administrative tasks

While cumbersome and time-consuming, the following administrative tasks are important to help you close out your loved one's affairs. Note that the estate's executor or trustee will need to email, mail or fax a copy of the death certificate for many of these tasks.

• Notify all financial accounts. Contact banks, credit card providers, credit bureaus, lenders and life insurance companies. Your funeral home should automatically notify the Social Security Administration for survivors benefits.
• Call utility providers. Let them know you need to transfer service into your name.
• Identify debts and other liabilities. The executor will need to discharge these appropriately.
• Cancel important registrations. This includes their driver license and voter registration.
• Close online accounts. Decide whether you want to memorialize your loved one's social media accounts or close them, and close all other accounts from the list you've already gathered.
• File the final tax return. Next tax season, you'll need to file your final joint income tax return with the IRS. You can always reach out to a CPA or an estate planning attorney for assistance.

While losing a loved one is never easy, this checklist for preparing for the death of a loved one can help give you peace of mind—and a path forward.