5. How Should I Prepare for an Initial Meeting After a Death of a Loved One?
In order to make the most of our initial consultation, new clients are asked to bring the following information to the estate administration meeting:
- A certified copy of the death certificate.
- A list of the decedent’s property e.g., bank accounts, stocks, bonds, mutual funds and brokerage accounts, residences or other real estate, amounts owed to the decedent, business assets such as S corporation stock or an LLC interest, including names and addresses of anyone who owed money to the decedent.
- The fair market value of each item of property as of date of death (best estimate to begin process).
- The decedent’s place of residence immediately prior to death, and permanent residence, if different.
- Amounts owed by the decedent to his creditors, along with their names, addresses, and account numbers, if applicable.
- A list of the decedent’s heirs (spouse, children, grandchildren, or if none, parents, siblings and their children), and legatees (beneficiaries named in the Will), along with the birthdates, addresses, and telephone numbers for each heir or legatee, if possible.
- Dates of death and death certificates for any heir or legatee of the decedent who have died.
- A copy of the decedent’s Will (if any), including any codicils.
- A copy of the decedent’s Trust (if any), including any amendments.
- Any other pertinent information regarding the decedent’s family or assets.
For more estate planning information, please see:
- Estate Planning FAQ – What to bring?
- Estate Planning FAQ – Gifting
- Estate Planning FAQ – Life Insurance
- Estate Planning FAQ – Protect minor children
- Estate Planning FAQ – What is an Estate?
- Estate Planning FAQ – Imminent Death
- Wills and Probate
- Estate Planning FAQ – Is Probate Required?
- Estate Planning FAQ – Preparing for Initial Meeting
- Estate Planning FAQ – Personal Mission Statement
- Estate Planning FAQ – Revising an Estate Plan
- Planning For Long Term Care
- The Power of Attorney for Property
- Some Things In Life Are a Shock
- Misconceptions Affecting Assets After Death
- Estate Planning in the Springtime of Your Life
- Estate Planning in the Summer of Your Life
- Estate Planning in the Autumn of Your Life
- Estate Planning In the Winter of Our Lives
For more information contact us at 847-253-8800 or info@wpdlegal.com
