What To Do When a Loved One Dies
A free, practical, and downloadable guide you can refer to throughout the days, weeks, and months ahead.
We'll email you a copy of the guide so you can save it or print it when you're ready.
There's a Lot to Do.
This Guide Helps You Keep Track.
After a death, families are suddenly faced with dozens of practical responsibilities, often while they're grieving. Some things need attention right away. Others can wait.
The guide organizes those responsibilities so you can focus on what needs to happen now, what can happen later, and when you may need professional help.
Some Things Are Urgent. Many Things Aren't.
One of the hardest parts of handling someone's affairs is knowing what actually needs immediate attention. Closing accounts, distributing belongings or making financial decisions too quickly can sometimes create additional problems. The guide helps families distinguish between tasks that need prompt attention and decisions that can wait.
What's Inside
What to do in the first 24–48 hours
Who needs to be notified
Death certificates and important documents
Social Security, pensions and benefits
Bank accounts, credit cards and financial matters
Insurance policies
The home and personal property
Vehicles and other titled property
Digital accounts and online information
Bills, subscriptions and mail
Protecting against identity theft and fraud
What not to do too quickly
When it's time to contact an attorney or other professional
When Should You Call an Attorney?
Not every task requires legal help, but there are circumstances where families shouldn't try to navigate things alone.
You aren't sure whether probate is required.
There is a trust that needs to be administered.
You're unsure who has authority to handle property or accounts.
Family members disagree about what should happen.
There are debts or creditor concerns.
You're concerned about making a mistake.
Need someone to talk to? Schedule a consultation at 816.291.4143.
MEET THE AUTHOR
Glen Smith
Glen is the founder and managing attorney at Lifescape Elder Care Law & Estate Planning. He has extensive experience helping families navigate the many legal and personal issues that arise after a death. His firm serves the Kansas City metro area and beyond from offices in Kansas City, Missouri and Lenexa, Kansas.
