What to Do After Someone Passes

These guides are written for executors and family members who need to manage a loved one's digital and financial life after they are gone. Each guide covers practical steps, what you'll need, and when to seek professional help. You don't need an Fern & Echo account to use these resources.
First steps
Locate Important Documents ⏱ 1–3 days
Notify the Social Security Administration ⏱ 1–2 hours
Notify Government Agencies ⏱ 1–2 weeks
Financial & insurance
Notify Banks and Financial Institutions ⏱ 1–2 weeks
File Insurance Claims ⏱ 2–8 weeks per claim
Transfer or Close Investment Accounts ⏱ 2–6 weeks
Contact an Employer or Pension Provider ⏱ 1–3 days
File a Final Tax Return ⏱ 2–4 hours
Accounts & services
Cancel Utilities and Services ⏱ 1–3 days
Cancel or Transfer Subscriptions ⏱ 2–4 hours
Close or Memorialize Social Media Accounts ⏱ 1–3 hours
Legal
Understanding Probate and When You Need an Attorney ⏱ 6 months to 2+ years

Make sure your executor has what they need.

These guides help executors act. Fern & Echo makes sure they have the account details, 2FA methods, and recovery paths to actually get in.