Comprehensive Checklist for Pre- & Post-Death Planning

July 8, 2026

A comprehensive checklist for pre and post death planning to help families navigate the many tasks and decisions that come before and after a loved one passes.

Planning for end-of-life and managing affairs after a death involves numerous important tasks that can feel overwhelming. Having a comprehensive checklist helps ensure nothing is overlooked during an emotionally challenging time.

Pre-planning tasks include: creating or updating a will, establishing powers of attorney (financial and medical), documenting funeral wishes, organizing important documents (insurance policies, bank accounts, property deeds), and communicating your wishes to family members. These steps provide peace of mind and significantly reduce the burden on loved ones.

Immediately after a death, priorities include: obtaining a legal pronouncement of death, notifying family and close friends, contacting the funeral home, securing the deceased's property, and locating the will and important documents. Within the first few days, you'll need to arrange the funeral, obtain death certificates, and notify the employer and Social Security.

In the weeks following, additional tasks include: filing for life insurance benefits, notifying banks and financial institutions, transferring utilities, canceling subscriptions and memberships, updating property titles, and filing the deceased's final tax return. A systematic approach to these tasks prevents important items from falling through the cracks.