Losing a loved one is undoubtedly one of the most heartbreaking and overwhelming experiences. Alongside the grief, there are immediate actions you must take to protect their assets and information. Some steps may not seem obvious, but handling them early on can prevent unnecessary complications. Based on personal experience, here are five things you should do right away when someone passes, beyond the usual arrangements.
Secure Their Digital Information
It might not be the first thing you think of, but securing your loved one’s digital life is critical. If they kept a book of passwords or had any digital storage of sensitive information, it’s essential to find it and secure it immediately. Failing to do so could result in identity theft or unauthorized access. One personal experience involved a loved one’s password book being taken by a home nurse, leading to unauthorized purchases and credit card applications. Protecting their passwords, emails, and other personal data is crucial to prevent thieves from taking advantage.
Control Their Phone and Devices
A loved one’s phone and other devices can be a point of vulnerability after their passing. While it’s not uncommon for some to leave their phones active for a time, it’s important to ensure that only trusted individuals have access. You should take possession of the phone and ensure it’s not tampered with or used for fraudulent activities. Additionally, unplugging any computers or laptops from the network will help secure their digital footprint until the right steps are taken to clear their accounts.
Monitor the Home for Security
If your loved one lived alone, it’s important to ensure that the house is not left vulnerable. Some people may be tempted to take advantage of the situation, especially when news of a death spreads via social media or an obituary. While it may seem paranoid, having a trusted person stay at the house, or even installing security cameras, can help protect the property. In one case, security cameras proved invaluable when a break-in occurred unexpectedly, even in a seemingly safe neighborhood.
Notify Social Security Immediately
One of the first official actions you should take is to contact Social Security. While many mortuaries notify them, it can take up to a month for the government to process the information. Calling right away can help prevent fraudulent activities, such as thieves trying to open credit accounts in the deceased’s name. Spouses or partners should be the ones to call, as they will be asked personal questions about the deceased, and it’s important that they can answer them accurately.
Protect the Estate and Assets
After a loved one passes, their assets are vulnerable to theft or misuse. It’s essential to secure their belongings, whether it’s their home, financial accounts, or personal items. This might involve locking up valuable possessions, taking control of financial documents, and ensuring that no one has unauthorized access to their estate. While these actions may feel uncomfortable during such a difficult time, they can save you and your family from further complications down the road.
Conclusion
Grief is already difficult enough without having to worry about safeguarding your loved one’s estate and personal information. Taking these crucial steps right away can help protect their assets and preserve their legacy. Though it may seem overwhelming, being proactive about securing their digital life, home, and financial information can prevent additional stress and hardship.
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