Arrange to pay mortgage regularly, or for the sale of the house

The home is often the largest asset and burden to deal with. Generally, you can keep the home and figure out what to do about the mortgage or sell the home.

property, settling affairsJennifer GoodOctober 1, 2019real estate, physical property, financial and propertyComment

Arrange for distribution/sale of personal property

Going through the deceased's personal property and belongings can emotionally difficult and cause family conflict, but it can also be a time to share memories and find ways to remember the deceased.

property, settling affairsJennifer GoodOctober 1, 2019physical property, financial and propertyComment

Arrange for a permanent caretaker for pets

Many people view their pets as family. To respect the deceased person, it is important to find the pets a good home.

dependents & pets, settling affairsJennifer GoodOctober 1, 2019dependents, financial and propertyComment

Arrange for a permanent caretaker for older adults

The deceased person may have been a caretaker for an elderly spouse, relative, or friend. There are many options to arrange for their care - including another family member or friend, home care, or a living facility.

dependents & pets, settling affairsJennifer GoodOctober 1, 2019dependents, financial and propertyComment

Arrange for an individual living with developmental or intellectual disabilities

The deceased person may have made a plan or trust for their dependent with special needs. There are also designated caseworkers to support this process.

dependents & pets, settling affairsJennifer GoodOctober 1, 2019dependents, financial and propertyComment

Arrange for a permanent caretaker for children

This may be one person, or the role of caring for the child and managing the child's financials can be split between two people.

dependents & pets, settling affairsJennifer GoodOctober 1, 2019dependents, financial and propertyComment

If you were not paid automatically, file a burial allowance claim

Veterans burial allowances can help cover burial, funeral, the plot or interment, and transportation of the remains. You have up to two years to apply for these benefits.

veterans, settling affairsJennifer GoodOctober 1, 2019burial, cremation, funeral, memorial, legacy and funeralComment

Report a death to the VA

Report the death to the VA, in order to get an automatic burial payment and have them guide you through other steps and survivor benefits. You can call 1-800-827-1000.

veterans, settling affairsJennifer GoodOctober 1, 2019veterans, veterans payments, financial and property, legacy and funeralComment

Secure property and valuables

The executor is responsible for preserving the estate, so if theft or damage occurs, you could be liable.

Publish an obituary and social media tribute

Publishing an obituary is one of the five most important things you can do after a loved one dies. In addition to providing an outlet for mourning, it can help add meaning to the process of grief and bring together friends and family of the deceased for a memorial/funeral service.

Peacefully