Important Disclaimer  We are not attorneys and cannot provide legal advice. The information on this page is based on public sources and government publications, but it may not be complete or up to date. Probate procedures can vary based on individual circumstances. Please consult a qualified attorney for legal guidance. Our number one recommendation is to hire an attorney. Our second recommendation is to consider hiring a professional fiduciary when needed.

Losing Someone: A Gentle Guide for What Happens Next

Losing a loved one shakes everything at once. The hours and days that follow can feel blurry, confusing, and unreal. It is normal to feel overwhelmed or unsure about what to do. This guide is here to help you move through each step at a steady, calm pace. You do not have to get everything done today. Start with the first section and take things one step at a time.

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Immediate Steps Within the First Hour

Confirm the Death

If hospice is involved, call the hospice nurse first. If not, call 911 so a medical professional or coroner can pronounce the death. This must happen before any other arrangements can be made.

Make the Area Safe and Calm

Give yourself a moment to breathe. If others are present, speak gently and let everyone know help is coming. You do not need to rush.

Contact the Funeral Home

Once the death is officially pronounced, the funeral home or cremation provider will arrange the transfer. You do not need to make big decisions right now. You only need to choose who will handle the immediate transport.

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Within the First Few Hours

Notify Close Family

Call the closest relatives first. Keep the calls short and simple. You do not have to explain everything or answer every question right away.

Secure the Home and Property

If your loved one lived alone, make sure the home is locked and pets are safe. You can return later to gather personal items and paperwork.

Locate Important Documents

If you can, collect the basics. Do not worry if you cannot find everything yet.

• Identification • Any funeral instructions • Will or estate documents • Insurance information • Medical paperwork

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Within the First Day

Choose a Funeral Home or Cremation Provider

If you have not already selected one, now is the time. Ask for a general price list so you can compare costs. Funeral homes must provide one.

Contact the Employer

If your loved one was employed, let the employer know. This begins the process of stopping pay, closing workplace accounts, and providing any benefits information.

Arrange Temporary Care for Dependents

If your loved one cared for children, adults with disabilities, or pets, make temporary arrangements until long term plans can be made.

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Within the First Week

Order Death Certificates

Most families need several certified copies. Banks, insurance companies, and government agencies will ask for them. The funeral home can usually help with ordering.

Begin Funeral or Memorial Planning

You do not need to rush these decisions. When you are ready, think about:

• Burial or cremation • Type of service • Location • Who may want to participate • Personal touches that honor their life

Notify Agencies and Institutions

Create a simple checklist so you can track your calls. The most common ones include:

• Social Security • Banks and credit unions • Insurance companies • Retirement or pension plans • Veterans Affairs • Utility companies • Subscription services

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Understanding Probate and Legal Steps

Determine Whether Probate Is Needed

Probate is the legal process for settling an estate. Not every estate must go through probate. The need depends on state laws, the presence of a will, how assets are titled, and the size of the estate.

If probate is required, the court will appoint an executor or administrator. Many states require a probate bond to protect the estate and its beneficiaries.

Read the Will

If there is a will, it will name an executor and outline how the estate should be handled. If there is no will, state law decides who serves as administrator.

Seek Legal Help if Necessary

Simple estates may not require an attorney. Larger estates or situations involving property, disputes, unclear documents, or multiple heirs may benefit from legal guidance.

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Handling the Home and Personal Property

Make a Simple Inventory

Walk through the home and make a basic list of important items such as documents, jewelry, and sentimental belongings. You can sort and organize later.

Forward Mail

Forwarding mail helps protect private information and reduces the risk of identity theft.

Protect Against Fraud

Keep an eye on the following until the estate is settled:

• Bank accounts • Credit cards • Online accounts • Subscriptions and automatic drafts

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Financial Steps to Expect

Contact Life Insurance Companies

Each insurer will explain what documents they need. Once everything is received, benefits are usually paid within a few weeks.

Manage Household Bills

Basic bills such as utilities and property payments should continue for now to avoid late fees or service interruptions.

Review Debts

Most debts are paid from the estate, not by the family. Probate handles this part. Avoid paying bills with your own funds unless absolutely required.

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Emotional Care and Support

Grief looks different for each person. Some feel shock, some feel numb, and others feel deep sadness or anger. There is no correct way to feel and no schedule you must follow.

Reach out when you are ready to:

• Friends and family • Support groups • Clergy or faith communities • Counselors or grief professionals

You do not have to go through this alone.

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When You Are Ready

Once the first days and weeks settle, you can begin the longer process of handling the estate. This may include transferring property, closing accounts, filing paperwork, and working with the probate court.

If the court requires a probate bond, you can get fast pricing and approval at ProbateCourtBond.com. Take your time. There is no need to rush.