Losing someone you love unexpectedly is one of life’s most painful experiences. The shock, the grief, the confusion—it all comes rushing in at once, making even the simplest decisions feel impossible. At Axis Estate Planning, we understand how overwhelming these first days can be, and while no guide can take away the heartache, having a few steady steps to follow can help bring a sense of calm during the storm.
This gentle guide is here to help you navigate some of the immediate responsibilities that arise after a sudden loss, so you can focus on what matters most—being there for each other.
1. Obtain the Death Certificate
An official death certificate is essential to begin the legal and administrative processes ahead. You’ll need it to notify financial institutions, insurance providers, government agencies, and more. We recommend ordering several certified copies, as many institutions require their own.
If your loved one had a will or trust, the death certificate is usually the first document needed to initiate the probate or estate administration process. Our team at Axis Estate Planning is here to help guide you through what those steps look like and what’s required in the state of Michigan.
2. Notify Close Family, Friends, and Employers
In the midst of your grief, sharing the news can feel emotionally exhausting—but it’s an important step. Begin by informing immediate family, close friends, and your loved one’s employer if they were still working. Doing so allows loved ones to come together in support and ensures that final paychecks and any employee benefits can be addressed promptly.
Some families also choose to share a respectful notice on social media as a way to inform extended networks who may want to offer condolences or attend services.
3. Locate Funeral or Memorial Wishes
If your loved one had pre-arranged funeral or memorial plans—whether formally documented or shared with a family member—do your best to locate those instructions. If none exist, the responsibility of planning falls to the next of kin.
You may also be eligible for assistance from the Veterans Administration, religious organizations, or community groups. Whatever the form, funerals and memorials are more than ceremonies—they are a space for connection, storytelling, and the beginning of healing.
4. Secure Property and Protect Belongings
This is one step that’s easy to overlook but incredibly important. If your loved one lived alone, take care to secure their home and valuables. Change locks if necessary, collect any sensitive documents or keepsakes, and consider forwarding their mail to avoid identity theft or missed bills.
If pets were left behind, arrange for their care promptly. Taking these actions helps preserve your loved one’s legacy and protects against unnecessary complications.
5. Locate the Will or Estate Plan
If an estate plan or will exists, now is the time to locate it. Check for secure places like safes, fireproof lockboxes, or filing cabinets—and don’t hesitate to contact your loved one’s attorney, who may have a copy.
This plan outlines how assets should be distributed and who will handle affairs. If no will exists, Michigan’s intestate succession laws will dictate how assets are divided—which may or may not reflect your loved one’s wishes.
At Axis Estate Planning, we often say that having a plan in place is one of the most meaningful gifts you can give your family. It provides clarity when they need it most—and ensures your wishes are honored.
A Final Thought: You’re Not Alone
Grief isn’t linear, and healing doesn’t happen overnight. But you don’t have to carry this burden by yourself. Reach out to your support system—family, friends, counselors, clergy—and allow yourself the space to grieve.
If you’ve been putting off your own estate planning, this moment may be the gentle nudge you need. Preparing your plan is not just about protecting your wealth—it’s about protecting the people you love, long after you’re gone.
We’re here to walk that path with you, every step of the way.
Visit Us: 900 Wilshire Drive, Suite 105, Troy, MI 48084
Call Us: (248) 920-9398
Learn More: www.axisattorneys.com
Axis Estate Planning
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