Losing someone close to you is never easy. Grief can leave you feeling foggy, even as the world keeps moving and responsibilities pile up. If you’ve recently lost a loved one, you’re likely facing a mix of emotions and unanswered questions. What should you do first? What documents do you need? Who can help?
At Horizon Elder Law & Estate Planning, Inc., we understand how overwhelming this time can feel. Our goal is to help you take one step at a time and find clarity in the process ahead.
First Steps in the Days After Death
In the first few days after someone passes away, there are a few immediate tasks that need attention. These don’t have to be done all at once or alone, but addressing them early can ease stress later on.
Start by making sure your loved one’s home is safe and secure. If they had pets or dependents, arrange for their care. You’ll also want to notify close family members and friends who may not have heard the news.
You’ll need to get a certified death certificate, usually provided by the funeral home or cremation service. It’s a good idea to request multiple copies—many agencies and institutions will require one. From there, contact a funeral home to begin making arrangements.
This stage can feel like a blur, and it’s okay to ask for support. You’re not expected to do everything perfectly.
What to Do When a Loved One Dies: A Checklist
To help you stay organized during this difficult time, here’s a general list of steps to take after someone passes away:
- Find the will, trust, or estate plan if one exists
- Notify the Social Security Administration
- Inform life insurance companies and file claims
- Contact the deceased person’s employer, if applicable
- Cancel or adjust ongoing services and subscriptions
- Secure valuables and gather important documents (ID, property deeds, financial accounts)
- Set up mail forwarding and cancel unnecessary deliveries
- Arrange care for minor children or dependents, if any
- Speak with an estate or probate attorney about next steps
- Start making an inventory of assets, property, and outstanding debts
Some of these steps may not apply to your situation, and that’s perfectly normal. We can help you determine what matters most in your specific case.
Understanding Probate and Estate Administration
Probate is the legal process of distributing a person’s property after they’ve passed away. In California, probate is required when the estate exceeds a certain value and no trust is in place. The process is overseen by the court and typically involves proving the will, settling debts, and distributing remaining property to heirs.
If your loved one had a living trust, the process may be handled outside of probate, which can save time and court fees. In other cases, a simplified process may be available if the estate qualifies as a “small estate” under California law.
Whether you’re named as the executor or just trying to figure out what comes next, we’re here to support you. We’ll explain what each step means and help you carry out your responsibilities properly and efficiently.
How We Can Help You Through This Process
You don’t have to sort through everything on your own. At Horizon Elder Law & Estate Planning, we guide families through every stage of estate administration. Whether your loved one left behind a full estate plan or no will at all, we’ll help you understand your options and avoid unnecessary delays.
We assist with tasks such as collecting and valuing assets, paying outstanding bills, distributing property, and handling court filings when necessary. Our goal is to give you peace of mind, so you can focus on honoring your loved one, not worrying about paperwork or legal steps.
We work with families of all sizes and backgrounds, and we approach each case with care and respect.
Contact an Experienced San Ramon Probate & Trust Administration Attorney
We know this isn’t an easy time. If you need help with probate or trust administration in Contra Costa County after a loved one’s death, we’re here to guide you. Contact Horizon Elder Law & Estate Planning today to schedule a consultation.