Legal and Estate Resources

Find the original will if one exists and identify the person named as executor. In New York, probate and estate administration are generally handled through Surrogate’s Court. If there is no will, a different administration process may apply.

Certified death certificates are often needed for estate, insurance, property, benefits, and account matters. Ask the funeral director about the initial order and use official New York City or state channels for additional copies. Requirements vary by institution.

Being a relative does not automatically provide authority over every asset or account. Courts, institutions, and service providers may require letters testamentary, letters of administration, a small-estate certificate, or other proof of authority.

Create a list of banks, insurers, employers, pension administrators, lenders, utilities, subscription providers, and government agencies. Before closing an account, determine whether statements, automatic payments, tax records, refunds, or digital files still need to be preserved.

Funeral homes generally report deaths to Social Security, but survivors should review current SSA information about survivor benefits and any lump-sum death payment. Do not rely on old dollar amounts or informal eligibility summaries.

Maintain a dated log of calls, forms, documents submitted, confirmations, account balances, property, expenses, and unanswered questions. Store original documents securely and share copies only through verified channels.