What Documents Are Needed After Someone Dies?
After a death, paperwork quickly becomes part of the process. Knowing which documents matter — and where to find them — can make everything significantly easier for whoever is handling the estate.
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Start by gathering:
- Death certificate (you will likely need multiple certified copies)
- Will or trust documents
- Life insurance policies
- Property records and mortgage documents
- Financial account statements
- Tax returns from recent years
- Social Security information
Most financial institutions, government agencies, and courts will require a certified copy of the death certificate — not a photocopy. Order more than you think you'll need.
How these documents are used
These documents help determine:
- Who has authority to manage the estate
- What assets exist and how they are owned
- Whether probate is required
- Who the named beneficiaries are
Financial institutions will typically require a certified death certificate before releasing account information or transferring funds.
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A will exists
The will identifies the executor and contains instructions for distributing assets. The probate court will need the original — keep it in a safe place.
No will exists
If no will can be located, the estate proceeds under state intestacy law. A court will appoint an administrator to manage the process.
Property ownership records
Title records show how a home was owned — jointly, solely, or through a trust. This single document often determines whether probate is required for the property.
What to do next
Gather documents first. Once you know what assets exist and how they're owned, the next step is determining whether probate is required — and who has legal authority to move things forward.
Frequently asked questions
How many death certificates should I order?
Most families benefit from ordering at least 8–12 certified copies. Banks, insurance companies, government agencies, and courts each typically require their own certified copy — photocopies are usually not accepted.
What if I cannot find the will?
Check with the deceased person's attorney, look in safe deposit boxes, and search common storage locations at home. If no will is found, the estate proceeds under state intestacy law as if no will existed.
Do banks require original documents?
Banks and financial institutions typically require certified copies of the death certificate — issued by the vital records office, with an official seal. Photocopies are generally not accepted.
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