In this 4 part series, we will show you some probate tips you shouldn’t overlook. Probate is the process of closing the estate of a deceased person. It can include paying all final debts and taxes and distributing all assets. An executor will work through the process alone or with a probate attorney and notify the probate courts of their actions.
Probate can be confusing and time-consuming if you have never been through it before. But some tips can help make the process easier. One step that is easy to overlook concerns the death certificate.
Probate Tip #2: Secure at least 4-5 copies of the death certificate.
If you are the executor of the estate, obtaining multiple copies of the death certificate will help you tremendously. One step in the probate process is to pay all necessary debts and taxes and close the accounts. It is common for businesses to ask for a copy of the death certificate when you are not the account holder.
Some examples of who will want a copy of the death certificate:
While you may not have to present a death certificate to each business listed above, having them on hand is easier than trying to obtain more after the original order. And since it can take time to order new certificates, not having enough may delay the probate process.
A death certificate is a legal document that tells the date, time, and cause of death of someone. It is common to order death certificates through the funeral home, but it must be done within 72 hours of your loved one’s death. Thankfully, funeral directors are familiar with this process and can help you order multiple copies.
If you did not order enough copies of the death certificate or need them years later, you must work with your state or county’s vital records office. You can go to the office or order copies of the death certificate online. Be prepared to show a government-issued ID and prove your relationship to the deceased.
An experienced probate attorney can also help guide you with this tip and many others. Since you will be working with the courts, government agencies and sometimes disgruntled beneficiaries, having a legal person on your side can be very helpful. A probate attorney can help you with the probate process as much or as little as you want. It is entirely up to you. They can help you file documents with the courts, answer beneficiaries’ questions, and ensure you are not forgetting anything.
Read other probate tips here.
One Probate Tip You Shouldn’t Overlook: Part 1
One Probate Tip You Shouldn’t Overlook: Part 3
One Probate Tip You Shouldn’t Overlook: Part 4
Do you have questions about the probate process? Our experienced probate attorneys can advise you on the best options to ensure you close an estate properly and legally. Contact the Estate & Probate Legal Group at 630-864-5835 to talk to an attorney today.
AREAS WE SERVE: Cook, DuPage, Kane, Lake, Kendall and Will counties
