Settling the affairs of another person can be very
difficult if important documents can't be found. It's always a good idea
to keep copies of these documents in a secure place, such as a safe deposit
box. Be aware that only those listed as authorized users of a safe deposit
box may be given access to it. In many states, if a survivor/beneficiary
is not listed as an authorized user, he or she will have to obtain authorization
from the county or state government courts to gain access. If this is the
case, contact the bank and your attorney for assistance.
The following is a brief list of documents that you will need to settle the affairs of a deceased family member or friend.
Certified Death Certificate - You will need approximately 10 - 15 certified copies of the death certificate to apply for any benefits, file tax returns, and gain access to bank accounts. Your funeral director can get them for you, or you can contact the county clerk directly. You may also get additional copies of the death certificate several weeks after the death by contacting your county's Vital Statistics Office. The cost is usually $5 - $15 per certificate.
A copy of the Will or Trust - If you can't find a copy of the will among the deceased's papers or in a safe deposit box, you should contact the deceased's attorney. If the deceased moved during his or her adult life, you may have to contact a previous attorney in another city.
Federal Income Tax Filings - Federal income tax filings are a
good source of basic financial information. They include lists of bank
accounts, employers, investment accounts, and other assets the deceased
may have had.
Insurance Policies - Be sure to set aside all insurance policies
you find. Although life insurance is the primary focus after a death,
you will also have to make changes to auto, property and other insurance
policies. If you are unable to locate the Chase Insurance insurance policy,
you may fill out the Lost Policy Statement on the claim form. You may
also contact the agent who wrote the policy; he or she will have a copy
of the policy on file. If you feel that the deceased owned additional
life insurance policies but are unable to find them, contact the American
Council of Life Insurers.
Social Security Numbers - For purposes of administering the will
and life insurance, survivors will need to provide Social Security numbers
for the deceased, deceased's spouse, and all dependent children. The deceased's
Social Security number will be listed on the death certificate.
Birth Certificates for Dependent Children - If you cannot find birth certificates, you can obtain additional copies from the state or county public health department where the children were born.
A list of all properties and assets - You may find this information
among the deceased's papers or computer files, in a safe deposit box,
or on file with the deceased's attorney. Look for deeds and titles for
homes, cars, and boats as well as records for investments, pension funds,
and bank statements.
Marriage License - The spouse of the deceased will need a copy of the marriage license to apply for certain benefits, such as Social Security. A copy of your marriage certificate can be obtained through the clerk's office of the county in which you were married.
Military Discharge Papers - To receive veteran's benefits, you'll
need a copy of the deceased's military discharge papers. Refer to the section on Military Funeral Options for information.
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