What Do I Need After the Funeral?
No matter when it happens, the loss of a loved one is a moment we are often unprepared to address. You may have made many decisions related to the funeral, but you may not know what next steps may be necessary to finalize your loved one’s wishes. Below is a list of next steps and documents to consider related to honoring your loved one’s legacy.
Possible Next Steps:
- File the Will
- Collect Assets
- Pay Outstanding Debts
- File Tax Returns
- Prepare Final Account
- Issue Distributions to Beneficiaries
What to Collect:
- Original Will, Codicils and/or Trust
- List of to Whom Personal Items are Designated
- Certified Death Certificate
- Beneficiary Information (Name, Address, SSN)
- List of all Prior Spouses and/or Children
- Inventory of Valuables
- Banking and Safe Deposit Box Information
- Original Certificates for Investments
- Automobile Titles
- Real Estate Deeds and Tax Documents
- Life Insurance Information ·
- Income Tax (Last 3 Years) and Gift Tax Returns (All)
- Business Documents
- Current Bills and Loan Information
- Unpaid Wages or Employer Death Benefits · Accountant Information
- Potential Lawsuit or Claim Information
At Strohschein Law Group, we understand the complexities of Estate and Trust Administration and are ready to help you walk through them. We are committed to providing knowledgeable, caring and personal counsel at this difficult time for you. We know that coping with the death of a loved one is difficult enough, without having to face the legal issues associated with administering an estate—and we’re here to help you through the entire process.
Contact a certified elder law attorney(*), such as Linda Strohschein and her team at Strohschein Law Group, for assistance in securing the home and personal belongings; handling the Will and Trust; dealing with tax matters; and working with the decedent’s accountant, financial advisor, insurance or real estate agent towards a speedy resolution of estate issues. To set up an appointment, contact Strohschein Law Group at 630-377-3241.
This information provided by Strohschein Law Group is general in nature and is not intended to be legal advice, nor does it constitute a legal relationship. Please consult an attorney for advice regarding your individual situation.
(*) The Supreme Court of Illinois does not recognize certifications of specialties in the practice of law and the CELA designation is not a requirement to practice law in Illinois.