What to Take Care of After a Parent Dies

<img src="https://dcr-apis.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/wp_contents/uploads/DCR-ADMIN/Article_Webp/after%2520parent.webp" alt="undefined" style="height: auto;width: auto"/> Dealing with the death of a parent can be an emotionally overwhelming experience. Amidst the grieving process, there are also several practical matters that need to be addressed. Here are some key steps you should take after the loss of a parent to ensure their affairs are handled respectfully and legally: Obtain the death certificate. You’ll need multiple copies of the death certificate for various purposes, such as closing accounts, claiming benefits and transferring assets. Generally, you can order these through the funeral home or directly from the vital records office in the state where the death occurred. Notify relevant parties. Inform family members, friends and acquaintances about your parent’s passing. You’ll also need to notify various institutions and agencies, including employers, social security administrators, banks and financial institutions, insurance companies, credit card companies, and utility and service providers. Secure property and valuables. This might involve changing locks, arranging for someone to collect the mail or scheduling regular visits to the property if it’s going to be unoccupied. Locate and gather important documents. Wills, trusts, financial statements, insurance policies, and property deeds will be essential for settling the estate and other legal proceedings. Meet with a probate attorney. If your parent left a will, it generally needs to go through probate, which is the legal process of administering their estate. A probate attorney can guide you through this process, help resolve potential disputes and make sure your parent’s wishes are honored. Close or transfer accounts. You’ll need to close or transfer various accounts, including bank accounts, brokerage accounts, credit card accounts, and social media and email accounts.  Address financial obligations. Manage ongoing expenses related to your parent’s estate such as mortgages, utility bills and credit card debts. Consult with your probate attorney to understand which debts need to be paid off immediately. Claim benefits. Check if you’re eligible to claim benefits from sources such as life insurance policies, Social Security, veteran’s benefits or pension funds. Each organization will have its own procedure and requirements for claiming benefits. Take care of yourself. Grieving the loss of a parent can be a profound experience, so it’s important to take care of your emotional and physical health. Consider joining a support group, talking to a therapist or engaging in activities that help you cope during this difficult time.  <a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/" target="_self">Use Diamond Certified Resource to find top rated companies</a> Local, Top Rated Diamond Certified Companies Related to Your Topic <a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/santa-clara-funeral-services/" target="_self">Santa Clara County Funeral Service Companies</a> <a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/san-mateo-funeral-services/" target="_self">San Mateo County Funeral Service Companies</a> <a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/alameda-county-funeral-services/" target="_self">Alameda County Funeral Service Companies</a> <a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/san-francisco-funeral-services/" target="_self">San Francisco Funeral Service Companies</a> Related Articles <a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/Guide/funerals-and-memorials/" target="_self">The Essential Guide to Funerals & Memorials</a> <a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/find-expert-advice/" target="_self">Get Expert Advice From Owners of Top Rated Local Companies</a> <a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/membership/" target="_self">Become a Diamond Certified Preferred Member (Always Free)</a>