First Steps After a Death
Begin with immediate care, notifications and safeguarding essential information.
What to know
Contact appropriate medical or emergency professionals as needed, arrange care of remains, notify close family, secure homes and pets, and request certified death certificates. Avoid transferring or distributing estate property before authority is clear.
Practical next steps
- Identify your state and relevant documents.
- Write down the specific questions you need answered.
- Confirm applicable rules with official sources or a qualified professional.
- Keep copies of important documents and decisions.