Gathering documents when loss is imminent

While you're going through your loved one's things, you may discover secrets you weren’t meant to see or facts that your loved one neglected to mention. Even if they’re happy secrets, the revelation can be very unsettling. But remember, this doesn't mean you didn't know them, they were just more than you knew. Eventually you will realize that this wasn't really a surprise at all.

Finding unexpected information about your loved one

After a loved one passes away, you may need to see inside their safe-deposit box to know what to do with its contents. You will need some paperwork, and, depending on the state and the bank, a court order, and then the bank will let you look inside, but not remove anything. If you have the key, that can be a plus, and will save you drilling fees. After probate begins, the executor will gain access.

Accessing your loved one’s safe-deposit box

Sometimes you need an original copy of one of your loved one's documents and it is nowhere to be found. For most of these documents there is a set procedure for obtaining a new official copy, if you have the right information and documentation. Vital records offices keep life event-related documents, while county records or DMVs should be able to help with property-related ones. You'll almost always need a copy of the death certificate and proof that you are the personal representative of the estate. 

What to do when you can’t find important documents

When going through all of the paperwork your loved one left behind, you will have to hold on to some documents and dispose of many others. In either case, it's important to make sure that no personal information is left vulnerable. That means finding somewhere safe to store importamnt documents, and effective ways of destroying all the others.

Protecting your loved one’s sensitive information

To settle a loved one’s affairs, you will have to locate various documents amnong all their paperwork. These documents include the will, documents related to finances, prenuptial or postnuptial agreements, leases, documents related to mortgages or loans, deeds, titles, marriage certificates, birth certificates, divorce agreements, death certificates, utilities, and other bills. Look for documents everywhere, including offices, houses, closets, and safe-deposit boxes.


Dealing with your loved one’s documents

Personal Belongings

The House

Property & Assets

Applying for Benefits

Managing Accounts

Taxes

Bills & Debt

Searching for Documents

Informing Others

The Will

The Funeral

Probate

Immediate Arrangements

Identity Theft Prevention

Grief & Grieving

While you’re going through your loved one’s things, you may discover secrets you weren’t meant to see or facts that your loved one neglected to mention. Even if they’re happy secrets, the revelation can be very unsettling.

After a loved one passes away, you may need to see inside their safe-deposit box to know what to do with its contents. You will need some paperwork, and, depending on the state and the bank, a court order, and then the bank will let you look inside.

Sometimes you need an original copy of one of your loved one’s documents and it is nowhere to be found. For most of these documents there is a set procedure for obtaining a new official copy, if you have the right information and documentation.

When going through all of the paperwork your loved one left behind, you will have to hold on to some documents and dispose of many others. In either case, it's important to make sure that no personal information is left vulnerable.

Searching for Documents

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