When Someone Dies, You Shouldn’t Have To Figure It Out Alone.
Step-by-step checklists and practical tools to help you manage paperwork, banks, insurance, Social Security, pensions, and legal steps with clarity and calm.
If Someone Just Passed Away, Start Here
The first few days after a loss can feel overwhelming. This guide walks you through the essential steps most families must handle in the first 24–72 hours so you don’t have to search endlessly for answers or wonder what comes next.
- Confirm official pronouncement of death
- Contact a funeral home or cremation provider
- Secure the home and gather important documents
- Order multiple certified death certificates
- Identify the executor or legal decision-maker
- Notify immediate family and key contacts
A Clear System For What Comes Next
After the first few days, families often face weeks or months of paperwork and financial decisions. Prepared Passing is organized into structured phases so you always know what step follows the one you just completed.
Phase 1 — Immediate Actions
What must be handled right away in the first 72 hours.
Phase 2 — Financial Protection
Secure bank accounts, prevent identity theft, stop automatic payments, and protect assets.
Phase 3 — Institutional Notifications
Contact Social Security, pensions, insurance providers, banks, credit bureaus, and other organizations.
Phase 4 — Asset Transfer & Probate
Transfer property, vehicles, investments, and complete legal documentation requirements.
Phase 5 — Survivor Stability
Review benefits, adjust budgets, and plan for long-term financial stability.
Practical Tools To Keep Everything Organized
Handling accounts, paperwork, and institutions becomes easier when everything is tracked in one place. These simple tools are designed to reduce repetition and prevent missed steps.
Estate Asset Inventory Worksheet
Organize bank accounts, insurance, property, and investments in one document.
Account & Institution Contact Tracker
Record phone numbers, representatives, dates called, and conversation outcomes.
Death Certificate Quantity Planner
Estimate how many certified copies different institutions may require.
Survivor Budget Reset Worksheet
Adjust income, expenses, and benefits after financial changes.
Notification Tracking Log
Track which organizations have been notified and what documentation was submitted.
Everything You Need In One Place
You Don’t Have To Do Everything Today
You only need to take the next step. Start with the first 72 hours, and move forward one phase at a time. This system is designed to guide you through the process clearly and steadily.
