10 Things NOT to Do After a Loved One Passes Away

Losing a loved one is an incredibly difficult experience. In the midst of grief, there are many tasks that must be handled—some of which can be emotionally overwhelming. While it's easy to focus on what needs to be done, it’s also important to be aware of what you shouldn’t do in the days and weeks following a loved one's passing. Making hasty decisions or overlooking key steps can lead to unnecessary stress, legal complications, or financial issues down the road.

In this blog post, we’ll walk through 10 things you should avoid doing after a loved one dies to ensure the process goes as smoothly as possible and that you honor their memory in the best way possible.

 1. Don’t Make Major Financial Decisions Right Away

When someone passes away, there are immediate financial tasks to consider. However, making hasty financial decisions—such as selling property, canceling accounts, or making withdrawals from bank accounts—can be problematic. Here's why:

- Probate Process: If there’s a will, the estate will need to go through probate, and assets cannot be legally transferred or sold until that process is completed.

- Family Disputes: Selling property or liquidating assets prematurely can lead to conflicts among family members or beneficiaries.

- Tax Implications: Certain decisions, such as withdrawing from a retirement account or selling a property, can have tax implications. It’s better to wait for guidance from an attorney or financial advisor.

Tip: Give yourself time to grieve before making any major financial decisions, and seek professional advice when you do.

 2. Don’t Assume There’s No Will

Even if you believe your loved one didn’t have a will, you should never assume that’s the case until it’s officially confirmed. Many people create wills or trusts in their lifetime, but they may be stored in a safe place you haven’t accessed yet.

- Search Thoroughly: Look through personal files, safety deposit boxes, and online accounts for any indication of a will or estate plan.

- Consult an Expert: If no will is found, one of our Certified Probate Experts can help you proceed with intestate succession—the legal process for distributing assets when someone passes without a will.

Tip: If you’re uncertain about the existence of a will, take your time and don’t jump to conclusions.

 3. Don’t Neglect to Secure the Deceased’s Property

If the deceased owned a home, car, or other valuable assets, it’s crucial to take immediate steps to secure the property. This includes:

- Locking doors and windows

- Safeguarding valuable personal property (jewelry, electronics, etc.)

- Notifying any security companies or insurance providers

Delaying this can leave property vulnerable to theft or damage, and it can also lead to complications if you need to show that the estate took reasonable steps to protect the deceased’s assets.

 4. Don’t Cancel Insurance Policies Immediately

It may be tempting to cancel things like life insurance, health insurance, or auto insurance right away, but doing so can create unnecessary problems. Some policies provide death benefits, and others may cover the cost of funeral or medical expenses.

- Life insurance: If the deceased had a life insurance policy, the beneficiaries will need time to file a claim, and you’ll want to ensure the policy remains in effect until this is processed.

- Health insurance: Some health insurance plans may have coverage for expenses incurred up to the date of death or provide coverage for a period after.

Tip: Instead of canceling policies immediately, contact the relevant insurance providers to learn about the benefits and next steps before making any changes.

 5. Don’t Start Distributing Assets Immediately

One of the most common mistakes is starting to distribute assets to beneficiaries before the probate process is complete. Even if you believe that all assets are clear and uncomplicated, distributing assets too early can cause problems.

- Legal Requirements: In most cases, the estate must go through probate before assets can be legally distributed. If you distribute assets before probate is finalized, it could create confusion or disputes.

- Debts and Liabilities: Before distributing assets, you must ensure that all debts (medical bills, loans, taxes, etc.) have been paid. Otherwise, beneficiaries could be held responsible for those debts.

Tip: Wait for probate or consult one of our Certified Probate Experts before making any distributions to beneficiaries.

 6. Don’t Forget to Notify Creditors and Debt Collectors

Failing to notify creditors and debt collectors about your loved one’s death can lead to financial and legal complications. These agencies need to be informed so they can stop sending bills and work with the estate to settle outstanding debts.

- Credit Card Companies: Notify all credit card companies to stop further charges and begin the process of settling the accounts.

- Loans: Mortgages, auto loans, and any other loans will need to be dealt with during probate. Contact the lenders to inform them of the death and discuss payment options.

Tip: It’s important to keep a record of all communications with creditors and debt collectors. Some may require a copy of the death certificate to process claims.

 7. Don’t Overlook Digital Accounts and Social Media

In today’s digital age, the deceased may have numerous online accounts, from social media profiles to email accounts, online banking, and digital subscriptions. Failing to address these accounts can create complications later on.

- Social Media: Many people leave behind social media accounts (Facebook, Instagram, etc.) that need to be closed or memorialized.

- Online Banking: If your loved one managed finances online, it’s important to gain access to those accounts to settle the estate.

Tip: Make a list of all digital accounts, and contact companies about how to close or memorialize them. You may need legal documentation, such as a death certificate, to access accounts.

 8. Don’t Make Unnecessary Legal or Financial Commitments

At a time of grief, it’s tempting to act impulsively, but making rushed legal or financial commitments—like signing contracts or entering into agreements—can create long-term issues for the estate.

- Avoid signing contracts or agreeing to debts without consulting a professional. If there are any outstanding contracts, it’s best to wait for legal advice.

- Emotional decisions: Don’t make decisions about property, possessions, or estate planning while in an emotional state. Wait until things settle, and seek professional advice before proceeding.

Tip: If in doubt, wait and seek legal or financial advice before making commitments.

 9. Don’t Ignore the Need for Grief Support

Taking care of legal and financial responsibilities can sometimes overshadow your need for emotional healing. While it’s easy to get caught up in the logistics of settling the estate, don’t neglect your own emotional health.

- Grief: Grieving is a natural part of the process, and it’s okay to ask for help. Reach out to family, friends, or a therapist who can provide emotional support.

- Time: Give yourself the time and space to mourn, and don’t rush through it for the sake of “getting things done.”

Tip: Consider joining a grief support group or talking to a counselor if you feel overwhelmed.

 10. Don’t Forget to Take Care of the Will and Executor’s Role

If you’re the executor or administrator of the estate, don’t forget to take on your duties with care. While it may be tempting to get things done as quickly as possible, the role requires attention to detail, legal compliance, and transparency, which takes time.

- Executor duties: Review the will carefully and ensure that all instructions are followed. If you’re unsure about any step, consult one of our Certified Probate Experts for guidance.

- Stay organized: Keep careful records of all actions taken, assets, debts, and communications with beneficiaries or creditors.

Tip: Executors should act promptly but thoughtfully, and be prepared for the responsibility of managing the estate through probate. Executors who decide to decline these duties can find assistance using our estate administration services.

 Final Thoughts

Navigating the death of a loved one can be a complex and emotional journey, and the list of things to do can seem endless. While it's easy to get caught up in the practical tasks, it’s just as important to be mindful of what not to do. Avoiding these common mistakes can help prevent future complications, protect the estate, and give you more space to grieve and heal.

If you're unsure about any aspect of handling the estate, it's always a good idea to seek guidance from one of our Certifed Probate Experts to ensure that everything is done correctly and in accordance with the deceased’s wishes.