HOW TO STAY FOCUSED DURING CHALLENGING TIMES

Unfortunately, the loss of a loved one is something we all will face at some point in our lives. Grieving is a tremendously difficult process, and knowing the steps to take after a loved one passes can help make an overwhelming time a bit less chaotic.

It is important to understand the information that you will need to access and the people that need to be notified, as well as the documents that you will need to begin to settle your loved one’s estates. Here are 7 tips for where to start and what to do as soon as possible after the loss of a loved one.

1. Locate any Estate Planning Documents such as your loved one’s Last Will & Testament, Trust Documents and any other Estate Planning information, and financial documents.

2. You will want to secure original death certificates for every financial institution and insurance company that you will be contacting.

3. Notify pension providers and the Social Security Administration and that your loved one has passed.

4. Call and close any credit card accounts in order to prevent identity theft or someone from fraudulent using your loved one’s credit card.

5. Make sure to pick up any mail your loved one receives to collect important bills, financial documents, bank, and investment statements.

6. Pull together all insurance policies and documents.

7. If you have fair warning about the declining health of a loved one, it is always a good idea to secure account numbers and passwords to any online accounts. This will make compiling the information you need to help settle your loved one’s affairs simpler and easier on you and your family during a most challenging time.