Finances After a Death: What to Know
Facts to Know About Green Funerary Options
June 18, 2018
The Death of a Parent
July 1, 2018
When a loved one dies unexpectedly, a lot of things can remain undone. This can involve finances which can affect the entire family and which can make the grieving process even more difficult for everyone involved. It can be very important to know the exact steps to take after a loved one dies without warning. We have some suggestions of what to consider if this has occurred so that the process can be smoother for everyone involved.
Ask for Many Copies of Death Certificate
Most official institutions, including banks, will require a copy of the death certificate to verify that the person is actually deceased. This is why it is vital to ask for at least ten copies of the certificate, although twenty can be even better. Keep in mind that if you purchase a single certificate the cost can be anywhere from $5 to $20, but if you purchase a lot of them at the same time, you can get a substantial discount.
Consult a Lawyer
Having a lawyer on your side when dealing with the finances that a loved one has left unresolved is always an excellent idea. However, even if you decide not to hire one, at least have a consultation. This is especially true if you are the executor of the will, since you are legally bound to follow the will’s directions to the letter. You want to ensure that the lawyer you consult is someone with experience in the field of wills, estates, and the like. Not all lawyers know this field, so be wary when it comes to choosing one. If you are not sure of who to choose, there are many Dale City, VA funeral homes that will be happy to help.
Notify Financial Institutions
It is important to notify the financial institutions, like banks, credit bureaus, creditors, and whatever else is necessary. This is where having lots of copies of the death certificate can make a huge difference, since it will save you the hassle of having to order them every time you need one. Be sure to notify Social Security as soon as the person dies. Not only is this fiscally advisable because the one-time payment can help with the funeral arrangements, but it will also ensure that no one steals the person’s identity and starts cashing in social security checks in the deceased person’s name. If there is insurance to cash, the sooner you get the process started the better it will be for everyone, since these things take time.
Take the time to read up on the financial issues that can arise after the death of a loved one. Taking care of the finances can be stressful and confusing, so consider hiring a lawyer that specializes in this before getting started. The right lawyer will simplify this for you. If a loved one has died and you need assistance, consult with a funeral home like Morrissett Funeral and Cremation Service, located at 6500 Iron Bridge Rd. Richmond, VA 23234. Call them at 804-275-7828!
