On or before a death occurs it is recommended to organize all important legal and financial documents into one location to assist with administrative matters that are taken to settle a person's affairs.
The passing of an individual presents complicated tasks for the family or individual(s) that are handling these matters. There are several important areas to focus on, most notably the legal documentation and obligations. Below is a key list of necessary legal documents, many of which it are suggested to have in order at the time or shortly after the death of individual (some may not be applicable):
Necessary Documents
- Last Will and Testament
- Living Will
- Trust Documents
- Death Certificate
- Letter of Instructions for Personal Affairs
- Power of Attorney
- Organ Donor Information
- Marriage Certificate
- Divorce Papers
- Military Paperwork
- Honorable discharge papers for a veteran and/or VA claim number
Additional Identification Documentation
- Birth Certificate
- Drivers License or State Identification Card
- Social Security Card
- Passport
- Identification Cards
- Birth Certificates for any Children
- Email Accounts, Website Usernames & Passwords
General Property Documentation
- Deeds and Titles to Real Property
- Automobile Title and Registration Papers
- Boat, RV, Motorcycle, or other Personal Motorized Vehicle Titles and Registration Papers
- Insurance Policies
- Home, Rental, Car, Motorized Vehicle
Financial Considerations
- Bank Accounts / Bank Passports
- Brokerage Accounts, Stock Certificates, Savings Bonds
- Safe Deposit Boxes
- Partnership Agreements
- Retirement Accounts
- 401(K) Accounts
- Pension Documents
- Annuity Agreements
- Life Insurance Policies
- Recent Income Tax Forms and W-2 forms
- Loan and installment payment books and contracts
- Credit Card Accounts