My loved one has passed – what do I do?

Managing the aftermath of a loved one's passing can be daunting, especially when it comes to knowing where to start. Here at Hannah Solicitors we understand this and have developed an informative guide designed for giving those in difficult times some guidance on how best they may proceed.

Whether taking care of their estate or simply coming to terms with different emotions, our aim is that you find peace during these trying moments by providing a helping hand every stop along your journey.

Register the death

In England and Wales, registering the passing of a loved one is an important step to take within five days. Healthcare professionals such as those at hospitals or hospices are able to offer advice on this process, while the government website provides plenty of resources for further guidance.

Organising the funeral

After the passing of a loved one, organising their funeral can come with many considerations.

The government website has useful information on this process and what benefits or assistance may be available to help cover costs.

Additionally, the “tell us once service” allows users to cancel official documents such as passports and driving licences in one go – something that registrars are also equipped to assist you with too.

Telling other institutions and organisations

To ensure a smooth transition following the loss of a loved one, it's important to inform relevant institutions and organisations. From banks to insurers and utility providers, you should contact them all - most have specialised bereavement departments that are ready and willing to help with necessary paperwork or processes.

Is there a will and what if there isn’t?

When property is held jointly, it automatically passes to the survivor and no grant of probate is required.

Conversely, if a deceased individual owned solely or had distinct ownership shares in something like real estate (generally referred to as tenants in common), then beneficiaries will need either a grant of probate or letters of administration for that asset's succession plan to be carried out.

While granting may be necessary due its being legally specified by many institutions, some banks have an exception; they allow up to £5000 from small accounts with no necessity for such official proceedings.

Wills are a powerful way to ensure your assets and estate will be distributed according to your wishes after you pass.

Executors named in the Will should receive possession of it for proper management, though legal assistance may still be necessary if complex documents or processes become involved.

It is no longer common practice for solicitors read these important documents aloud; instead, they release them directly into the hands of an executor — usually a family member — charged with administering distribution of what's left behind by those that have passed on.

In the event of a loved one's passing, it is important to understand what must be done to ensure their estate is properly managed. Without a Will in place, letters of administration are required in order for assets and belongings to be administered according to the law.

We can help make sense of this process especially if you need to find distantly related relatives - while accurately tracking records along the way. Although not covered by this guide; if there is an expectation that inheritance tax applies, then seeking professional guidance may prove beneficial due to potential complexities involved with it.

At this difficult time, there are several financial considerations that come with a loved one passing away. We understand how overwhelming and challenging it may be to process these emotions while navigating the associated finances during bereavement.

If you need help facing this situation now or in the future, we invite you to contact us for further assistance - no obligation necessary. Our experienced team is here both determine if our services can best address your needs and provide practical guidance even when they cannot.