When Grief Meets Responsibility: What Happens After a Loved One Dies

The unfortunate reality in life is experiencing the loss of a loved one.

The loss of a loved one can be one of the most difficult events we endure, and we have to allow ourselves the time to grieve.

In most cases, however, there are practical considerations that need to be taken into account before we can fully commit to the grieving and healing process. Alongside the emotional toll, there’s a mountain of paperwork and legal steps that follow a death, especially for the person managing the estate.

Tasks may include, but aren’t limited to:

• Submitting Last Will and Testament (if one exists) to the probate court

• Writing and filing the obituary with the appropriate publications

• Requesting and distributing multiple certified copies of the death certificate (originals often required)

• Paying the funeral bill and keeping all receipts

• Locating and transferring vehicle titles or registration cards

• Applying for an Estate Tax Identification Number from the IRS

• Opening a checking account in the name of the estate

• Notifying the deceased’s financial institutions

• Publishing a formal Notice to Creditors

• Completing an Inventory Form listing assets and belongings

• Paying court and legal fees tied to probate and estate management

• Filing an Affidavit of Notice to Creditors

• Submitting a Final or Annual Accounting Form

• Gathering all financial statements related to the estate

• Collecting signed and notarized acknowledgment forms from heirs

• Providing proof of payment for funeral services

When someone passes, those left behind often face an overwhelming combination of grief and responsibility. In many cases, the executor of the estate is not only managing paperwork but also coordinating funeral or memorial services—all while navigating the emotional weight of loss and the mental fog that can follow.

To carry out these duties, you’ll need detailed knowledge about the decedent’s assets and obligations, including:

• Bank account details

• Stocks, bonds, and investments

• Cash on hand or uncashed checks

• Estimated value of household furnishings

• Farm equipment, products, tools, or livestock

• Titles and registration for vehicles, trailers, or mobile homes

• Life insurance policies, retirement plans, IRAs, notes, or judgments

• Personal debts and outstanding loans

• Real estate solely in the decedent’s name (with fair market value)

• Property owned jointly with a spouse or others

• Inherited property details

• Utility memberships or services tied to the estate

• Any ongoing or pending legal claims, such as personal injury cases

In addition to managing all the details and responsibilities required of an executor, many are also planning a funeral or memorial service, often while trying to stay emotionally and mentally grounded. This doesn’t even account for the brain fog that can follow a painful or traumatic loss. Having personally been through this process—and knowing how hard it can be to take the next step—I understand how overwhelming it truly is.

 At any age, steps can be taken to help loved ones prepare for both the unexpected and the inevitable. Thoughtful planning can become one of the most meaningful and lasting gifts to those who matter most. Using the list above, important information can be gathered in advance and stored safely. This way, it’s easy to find and access when needed—bringing peace of mind during an otherwise overwhelming time.

Things to prepare and keep in a safe, accessible place:

• Last will and Trust documents

• Funeral preferences and any prepaid service documentation

• Titles, deeds, or registration cards

• A complete inventory of personal belongings with estimated values

• Bank account and investment information

• Real property and utility service details

• Any legal documents or contracts that may become relevant

While the death of a loved one is oftentimes the most difficult event many people will ever experience, you can provide them the gift of preparedness to allow for a smoother process.

Ensure your loved ones have been provided with what they need and allow them to get through that emotionally difficult time.