After the funeral service there are a number of legal and financial matters that must be finalised. In order to simplify this for you, we have compiled a list of tasks that may need your attention in the months following the loss. We recommend that you bookmark this page for reference in the future.
- Send thank-you / acknowledgement cards for flowers, donations, food and other tokens of support received from friends and family.
- Obtain a copy of the death certificate, and have a JP certify ten or so copies to issue to financial institutions, insurers, service providers etc.
- Compile all important documents such as insurance policies, the will, bank cards, deeds and titles, birth certificate, marriage certificate etc. Store all of these in a safe and central location.
- Consult with a lawyer to commence proceedings in relation to the estate.
- Finalise any accounts, including funeral invoices, medical bills and utility accounts.
Notify the following of the death, you may be required to provide these institutions with a copy of the death certificate.
- Insurance companies
- Superannuation fund
- Financial institutions including banks, mortgage and credit card companies
- The Australian Taxation Office
- Dentist and doctor
- Employer / former employer
- Medicare
- Utility providers including telephone, gas, electricity and water
- Accountant / financial planner
- Local post office
- Centerlink
- Commonwealth Department of Veterans Affairs
- Clubs, organisations and associations with active memberships
- Home delivery services including newspaper, groceries and magazines
- Australian Electoral Commission
- State transport authority (vehicle registration)