Navigating Overlooked Tasks After Losing a Loved One

Dealing with the loss of a loved one can be overwhelming. It's easy to overlook certain important estate administration tasks during this difficult time. While concerns over safeguarding bank accounts, managing real estate, and settling debts often take precedence, there are several less obvious responsibilities that require attention in the months following a death.

• Digital Legacy.  One of the first areas to address is the deceased's digital legacy. This involves closing or memorializing social media accounts, handling email accounts and online subscriptions, and accessing or transferring digital assets such as photos, documents, and even cryptocurrency.
  
  
• Notify Associations.  Additionally, it's crucial to notify less obvious institutions about the death, including the voter registration office, alumni associations, professional organizations or clubs, and companies managing loyalty programs or reward points.
  
  
• Cancel Services.  As you work through these tasks, you'll likely encounter various recurring services to cancel or transfer. These may include streaming subscriptions, gym memberships, recurring charitable donations, and magazine or newspaper subscriptions. It's also important to update or cancel identification documents such as driver's licenses, passports, and professional licenses.
  
  
• Pet Care.  If the deceased had pets, you may have several related tasks to manage, such as updating microchip information, transferring veterinary records, and arranging long-term care.
  
  
• Lesser-Known Benefits.  It's also essential to investigate lesser-known benefits that the deceased may have had, such as unclaimed pension benefits, employer-sponsored life insurance, frequent flyer miles, credit card points, or credit card accidental death benefits. While not all of these benefits are transferrable, some of them may be.
  
  
• Device Security.  In today's digital age, addressing device security is another crucial step. This involves unlocking smartphones or computers, retrieving important data, and wiping personal information if devices are to be donated or sold.
  
  
• Home-Related Tasks.  There are also several home-related tasks that need attention. These may include redirecting or canceling home care services, handling safety deposit boxes, and canceling or transferring home warranties or service contracts. Similarly, don't forget to cancel medical-related items like upcoming doctor's appointments, medical equipment rentals, and prescription auto-refills.

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Each of these tasks, while seemingly small, plays a part in properly settling your loved one's affairs. But it's important to remember that while these tasks are necessary, they don't all need to be addressed immediately. Take things one step at a time and keep in mind that it's okay to take breaks when needed. The grieving process is different for everyone, and it's crucial to take care of yourself during this challenging time. Don't hesitate to ask for help from friends, family, or professionals if you feel overwhelmed. 

With patience and perseverance, you'll be able to navigate this difficult process. Our office is here to help you through this difficult time.