A practical checklist for next steps, often handled by the next of kin or executor.
1. Locate the Will
Search for the original copy.
If missing, the estate will be treated as intestate, which complicates the legal process.
2. Order Death Certificates
Request 10–15 certified copies.
Required for banks, pensions, insurance claims, etc.
3. Handle Probate
Legal process for validating the will and managing the estate.
Can take several months to over a year.
4. Notify Authorities & Government Agencies
Revenue, Social Welfare, State Pensions, Passport Office, DVLA/NCTS.
Prevents identity fraud and stops unnecessary payments.
5. Notify Insurance Providers
Life insurance (to claim)
Health insurance (cancel or request refunds)
Car, home, and contents insurance (cancel or transfer)
Travel insurance (cancel trips if booked)
6. Close Financial Accounts
Contact banks, credit unions, investment firms, and credit card companies.
Formal notice and documents will be required.
7. Pension & Benefits (Detailed)
State Pension – Stop payments, apply for bereavement support.
Occupational or private pensions – Notify providers (e.g., Aviva, Irish Life).
Check for death-in-service benefits if deceased was still employed.
8. Cancel Healthcare Services
GP or family doctor
HSE medical card / GP visit card
Private health insurers (e.g. Vhi, Laya, Irish Life Health)
Pharmacy accounts and hospital outpatient appointments
9. Cancel Utilities & Subscriptions
Electricity, gas, water, broadband, mobile, streaming services, etc.
Check for direct debits or standing orders.
10. Access Digital Accounts
Email, phone, social media accounts (may require legacy contact or court order)
Cancel or transfer cloud storage, streaming, and e-commerce accounts
Consider a digital executor or archiving important digital content
11. Settle Debts
The estate must pay off loans, credit cards, outstanding bills before distribution of assets.
12. Transfer Property or Car Ownership
Legal title transfer may require a solicitor or probate confirmation.
Contact Land Registry, car registration office, etc.
13. Redirect Mail & Update Records
Use An Post’s redirection service or local equivalent.
Ensures important correspondence goes to the executor. Helps prevent fraud.
14. Clear Personal Belongings
Often emotionally difficult; consider involving close family.
Be sensitive to potential disputes over sentimental items.
15. Notify Employer or Trade Union
Final salary, accrued leave, death-in-service benefit
Cancel union or professional memberships
16. Cancel Memberships & Local Services
Clubs (GAA, golf, gyms), library cards, magazine subscriptions
Local services (e.g. Meals on Wheels, transport, day centres)
17. Notify Landlord or Tenants
If deceased was a tenant: end lease, arrange for return of deposit.
If deceased owned rental property: notify tenants, update Revenue.
18. Pets & Animal Care
Arrange for rehoming or continued care
Notify vet, cancel pet insurance or wellness plans
19. Organ Donor Card / Medical Research
If applicable, notify relevant body (e.g. Royal College of Surgeons).
Confirm donor status with hospital/GP or in health records.
✅ Optional (But Very Helpful)
📝 Keep a Contact Log
Track who you’ve notified, what they requested, and any follow-ups — prevents missed steps and duplicate work.
📂 Create a Master Folder
Digitally and physically store all key documents:
Death certificates
The will
Bank and insurance details
Correspondence with agencies
