Summary of General Steps to Take
When a Loved One Passes Away

• Locate will and safe deposit box, contact attorney and other appropriate and financial advisers.

• Arrange for funeral / memorial, notify friends and family.

• Contact descendant’s employer for details on death benefits.

• Locate life insurance policies, apply for proceeds.

• Arrange for continuation of payment of descendants bills.

• Notify social security, veteran’s administration, and other associations for possible benefits.

• If required, notify post office for address change.

• Contact various financial organizations of deceased: banks, mortgage holders, retirement plans such as IRA’s, Keogh’s, brokers, mutual funds, people who owed the deceased, insurance companies holding automobile, fire, medical insurance policies, DMV, credit card companies.

• Arrange for miscellaneous change and / or shut off of service agreements: utility companies, oil companies, newspaper and periodicals subscriptions, clubs, cable TV.

• Follow up on various tax matters as previously listed.

• Disposal descendants assets, and belongings according to will. If donating clothing, furniture, etc. to “goodwill type” organizations provide a detailed list and get a receipt for tax deduction purposes.

• We evaluate your own situation regarding your will, and information available to survivors in event of your sudden demise. Make it easier for your survivors then it was for you.

Please contact Topolinski & Associates regarding more information on this topic.