Words can not express how deeply sorry we are for your loss.

In an effort to minimize all that there is to do after a death, this "to-do list," can help during such a difficult time.

Within the first 24 hours:

1. Determine whether any of the decedent's property needs to be safeguarded, such as a motor vehicle, vacant house, etc.

2. Determine from the decedent's license or wallet if organ transplants or donations are designated and take immediate steps to obtain medical assistance for saving those donated organs.

3. Ensure that proper funeral arrangements have been made.

4. Contact the decedent's attorney for instructions and advice.

Within two weeks:

1. Locate the decedent's letter of instruction, if any.

2. Locate the original Will and read it.

3. Locate important records such as titles, deeds and life insurance policies.

4. Make an appointment with an attorney to discuss the estate.

5. Notify life insurance company(ies) of the death and request claim(s) forms.

6. If mortgage insurance on home exists, notify insurance company of death.

7. Determine if any bills must be paid immediately.

8. Contact creditors who are demanding immediate payment and notify creditors of death.

9. Notify credit card companies of death.

10. Cancel all credit cards on which decedent was the only signer.

11. Obtain bill for last illness from the hospital.

12. Order at least six (6) death certificates from the funeral home.

13. Contact Post Office to make any necessary changes in delivery of mail.

14. Make an inventory list of household goods and personal effects, to these can be identified and safeguarded for distribution.

15. Keep records of expenses incurred with the funeral and any other arrangements.

Within one month:

1. Notify Social Security of the death, and any other organization paying on retirment or paying on an annuity upon death.

2. Notify Military Personnel office of the death. (If applicable)

3. Gather together and organize all financial documents.

4. Gain access to and inventory safe deposit box.

5. Obtain the account balance on mortgages, loans, checking and savings accounts as of the date of death.

6. Take original Will, financial documents, balances, death certificates and inventory of safety deposit box to the meeting with an attorney.

7. Notify CPA, accountant or bookkeeper of the death.

Within two to six months:

1. If automobiles are held in joint tenancy, change motor vehicle titles to reflect ownership only by the surviving joint tenant. 

2. If stocks or bonds are held in joint tenancy, contact stockbroker to change records to reflect ownership only by the surviving joint tenant.