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What to Do When Someone Dies in Ohio

A step-by-step guide for the first 30 days. We know this is overwhelming. Take it one task at a time.

Get Death CertificatesDo I Need Probate?

Timeline of Tasks

Immediately

Pronounce death
If at home, call 911 or hospice to pronounce death
Contact funeral home
Arrange for the body to be transported
Notify immediate family
Call close family members and friends
Secure the property
Lock the home and protect valuable items

First Week

Order death certificates
Get 10-15 certified copies from the funeral home or vital records
Find the will
Check safe deposit boxes, attorney files, and home safes
Contact employer
Notify employer about benefits, final paycheck, and life insurance
Notify Social Security
Report the death by calling 1-800-772-1213

First Two Weeks

Contact financial institutions
Banks, investment accounts, and credit unions
Notify insurance companies
Life, health, auto, and homeowners insurance
File life insurance claims
Submit death certificate and claim forms
Contact attorney
If there is a will or trust, contact the drafting attorney

First Month

Create asset inventory
List all property, accounts, and valuable items
Review beneficiary designations
Check retirement accounts, life insurance, and POD accounts
Determine if probate is needed
Assess assets to see if court process is required
Pay ongoing bills
Continue mortgage, utilities, and insurance payments

Who to Notify

Keep this list handy as you work through notifications.

Social Security Administration
Call 1-800-772-1213
Employer / HR Department
Phone call or email
Banks & Credit Unions
Visit branch with death certificate
Insurance Companies
Call policy customer service
Credit Card Companies
Call number on card
Utility Companies
Call to transfer or cancel
DMV / Vehicle Registration
Visit in person or online
Post Office
Submit change of address form

Documents You Will Need

Gather these documents as soon as possible.

Death Certificates

Order 10-15 certified copies. You will need them for banks, insurance, property transfers, and more.

How to get death certificates →

Will & Trust Documents

Look in safe deposit boxes, home safes, attorney files, and important document folders.

Probate guide →

Financial Statements

Bank statements, investment accounts, retirement accounts, and recent tax returns.

Asset transfer guide →

What Comes Next?

After the first 30 days, you may need to start the probate process or transfer assets. Take our free assessment to find out what applies to your situation.

Take the Probate AssessmentRead the Ohio Probate Guide

Related Guides

Death Certificates

How to order certified copies

Executor Duties

What personal representatives do

Estate Checklist

Step-by-step task list

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Probate laws and procedures in Ohio can change. Consult with a qualified attorney for advice specific to your situation. Full disclaimer.