Key Institutions to Contact After the Death of a Loved One: Guidance from a Tampa Probate Lawyer

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. As a seasoned Tampa probate lawyer, I understand the complex and often overwhelming process that follows. One of these responsibilities includes informing various institutions of the individual’s passing. This blog post offers a list of places you should contact after the death of a loved one.

Government Agencies

• Social Security Administration: You should notify the Social Security Administration as soon as possible to stop Social Security benefits.
• Department of Motor Vehicles: If the deceased had a driver’s license or state ID, the DMV should be notified.
• Post Office: Forward the deceased’s mail to the appropriate address.

Financial Institutions

• Banks and Credit Unions: Contact the deceased’s banks to close accounts or change them to the estate’s name. Although, for a married couple, we always recommend leaving the deceased spouse’s name on the account for at least 6 months just in case you receive any refund checks in the name of the deceased spouse – most banks will allow the spouse to deposit such a check into a joint account. 
• Credit Card Companies: Notify these companies to close accounts and pay off any remaining balances.
• Investment Firms: If the deceased had stocks, bonds, or other investments, these firms need to be notified.

Insurance Companies

• Life Insurance: Contact the company to begin the process of claiming the life insurance payout.
• Health Insurance: Notify the health insurance company to cancel coverage.
• Home and Auto Insurance: These companies should be contacted to update or cancel policies.

Other Entities

• Employer: If the deceased was working, you’ll need to inform their employer. There might be benefits due to the family.
• Utilities and Service Providers: Cancel or change the name on utilities and services such as electricity, water, gas, internet, and phone.
• Doctors and Pharmacies: Notify the deceased’s healthcare providers and cancel any upcoming appointments.

This list is not exhaustive, and the specific institutions you need to contact may vary depending on the deceased’s personal and financial circumstances.

As a probate lawyer in Tampa, I can help guide you through this difficult time and ensure that all necessary steps are taken. If you need assistance with estate administration matters or have any questions about this process, please do not hesitate to reach out to us by calling (813) 438-8503.