Initial steps
Obtain the last will and read it carefully
Place a notice in a newspaper about the death of the testator
Arrange the funeral and either pay for it or present the invoice to the deceased's bank for payment
Obtain advice from a legal practitioner
Identify the beneficiaries
Notify the beneficiaries of their entitlements and give them a copy of the will
Obtain death certificate from funeral director
Executor administering the Estate
Without death certificate
Make a list of all assets
Make a video recording or photograph all household items
Inspect properties and ensure all property is secured by changing locks on doors, moving vehicles to secure location and storing valuable household items securely
Insure all property
Redirect mail
Notify the following persons and organisations:
Family and friends
Funeral director
Funeral insurance company
Funeral bond provider
Religious advisor
Professionals such as solicitors, accountants, financial advisors
Superannuation fund
Banks and credit unions
Credit card and hire purchase providers
Australian Electoral Commission
Department of Veterans’ Affairs
Education providers
Employers
Foreign pension authority
Health benefits fund
Health professionals such as doctors, physiotherapists, dentists, podiatrists, optometrists
Insurance companies
Landlord, tenants
Telecommunication providers such as phones, internet
Utilities such as gas, electricity and phone companies
Vehicle registration and licensing authorities
Cancel driver’s licence
Cancel Centrelink payments
Claim medical expenses
Cancel memberships and claim refunds
Cancel health insurance and claim a refund
Notify home and contents insurance if a property is unoccupied
Write to the financial institutions where the testator held accounts and ask for the specific requirements for releasing the funds
Ask to see any records made by any attorney under an enduring power of attorney
With death certificate
Apply for a grant of probate
Take instructions from beneficiaries about the sale or transfer of assets
Transfer vehicles
Write to share registries to confirm shareholdings and dividends paid
Write to the accountant and superannuation funds manager to confirm the financial details
After the grant of probate
Advertise for creditors
Open an estate bank account
Write to all financial institutions and share registries enclosing a certified copy of the grant of probate and directions for payment
Apply for an estate tax file number
Sell real estate and other assets
Pay debts and liabilities
Close online accounts, mobile apps and social media
Establish testamentary trusts with advice from an accountant
Wait for the expiry of the six month limitation period for family provision claims against the estate
Prepare estate accounts showing all money collected and paid on behalf of the estate
Prepare financial details to lodge any outstanding tax returns of the testator
Prepare tax return for the estate
Attend to reimbursement of expenses incurred on behalf of the estate
Distribute the estate to the beneficiaries under the terms of the will.
If you need help, call Crystal Lawyers on 04211 45637.