Question 1

What is the first thing to do when someone dies?

Accepted Answer

The first thing to do is obtain an official declaration of death. If the person passed in a hospital or nursing home, staff will handle this. If they passed at home under hospice care, call the hospice nurse. If the death was unexpected at home, call 911. After that, contact a funeral home — they can transport your loved one and guide you through immediate next steps.

Question 2

How many death certificates do I need?

Accepted Answer

You'll typically need at least 10 certified copies of the death certificate. Banks, insurance companies, government agencies, and courts all require original certified copies rather than photocopies. Your funeral home can usually order these for you. Each copy typically costs $10–25 depending on the state.

Question 3

How long does it take to settle an estate?

Accepted Answer

Most estates take anywhere from six months to two years to fully settle, depending on complexity, whether probate is required, and whether family members are in agreement. Simple estates with no real property or disputes can sometimes be wrapped up in a few months. Estates that go through formal probate typically take at least six months to a year.

Question 4

Do I need a lawyer to settle an estate?

Accepted Answer

Not always. Small estates that qualify for simplified procedures in your state — typically under $50,000–$150,000 depending on state law — may not require probate or an attorney. Larger estates, those with real property, business interests, or disputes among family members, generally benefit from working with an estate attorney.

Question 5

What bills need to be paid immediately after someone dies?

Accepted Answer

Ongoing expenses like mortgage or rent, utilities, and homeowner's insurance for any property the deceased owned should continue to be paid to protect the estate's assets. You are generally not personally responsible for a deceased person's debts unless you were a co-signer. Notify creditors of the death and the estate will handle outstanding debts before assets are distributed.

What to Do When Someone Dies: A Complete Checklist