After the passing of a loved one, it can seem as if time stands still. Ohio residents may stop going about their regular routines for at least a few days as they grieve and process their loss. However, the executor of the decedent’s estate still has a lot to do, and the responsibilities associated with probate can begin almost immediately.
The executor will undoubtedly contact close friends and family members first to inform them of the person’s passing. However, other parties also need to know about the death when working to settle the estate and the person’s final affairs. For instance, the executor will need to notify financial institutions like the decedent’s bank or investment firms. If the person was receiving Social Security payments, it is also necessary to inform the Social Security Administration of the recipient’s passing.
Additionally, the decedent’s creditors also need to know about the event. This allows them to make any final claims against the estate. Plus, the executor would be wise to inform the three major credit reporting agencies — Equifax, TransUnion and Experian — of the person’s passing in efforts to prevent identity theft.
It can be difficult to know who to contact and when after a loved one passes away. However, it is up to the executor to handle such matters appropriately in order to ensure that probate of the Ohio estate goes as smoothly as possible. Hopefully, the executor will have information provided by the loved one detailing account information, debts and other assets that could help during this process.
