First Week After Death: Step-by-Step Checklist and What to Prepare

The first week after death is often described by bereaved families as a high-pressure blur. While the emotional weight of loss is at its peak, the administrative requirements of the state, financial institutions, and funeral homes begin to mount almost immediately. As we move into late 2025 and 2026, the landscape of "death admin" is shifting, with significant changes to probate fees, estate tax exemptions, and digital legacy management.

Navigating this seven-day window requires a balance of immediate action and strategic patience. If you act too quickly in some areas—such as notifying a bank before securing funeral funds—you can inadvertently create more stress. Conversely, delaying tasks like securing the deceased's property can lead to insurance complications. This guide provides a structured, step-by-step framework to help you manage the logistical burden of the first week.

Day 1–2: Immediate Legal and Physical Steps

The first 48 hours are dedicated to the "legalities of the body" and initial notifications. If the death occurred in a hospital or hospice, much of the paperwork is initiated by the staff. If the death was unexpected at home, the process involves emergency services and potentially a coroner or medical examiner.

Pronouncement and Transportation

A legal pronouncement of death is the first required document. You cannot move forward with any funeral arrangements or administrative tasks without this. Once the pronouncement is made, the body must be transported to either a morgue (for a post-mortem, if required) or a funeral home.

Initial Notifications

Beyond the immediate family, you must notify the deceased’s employer. This is not just for bereavement leave for yourself, but to trigger the processing of final paychecks, life insurance benefits, or pension details.

For a more granular look at these very first moments, refer to our guide on the First 24 Hours After Death (Step-by-Step Checklist and What to Prepare).

Day 3–4: Securing the Estate and Locating the Will

By day three, the initial shock may still be present, but the focus must shift to "securing the status quo." This involves protecting the deceased's assets and identifying their final wishes.

Securing Property and Dependents

One of the most overlooked "first week death tasks" is physical security.

• Lock the Residence: Ensure all doors and windows are secure.
• Care for Pets: Arrange for temporary or permanent care for any animals.
• Perishables: Clear out the refrigerator and dispose of trash to prevent odors and pests.
• Vehicle Safety: Most experts advise making the deceased's car inoperable (unplugging the battery or locking it in a garage) until insurance is verified.

Finding the Last Will and Testament

The Will is the blueprint for the next several months. It names the executor—the person legally responsible for managing the estate. If you cannot find a physical Will in the home, check with their solicitor, look for a safe deposit box key, or search digital filing systems.

Day 5–7: Administrative and Funeral Logistics

As the first week draws to a close, you move into the "heavy admin" phase. This is where you interface with the government and begin the formal probate process.

Ordering Death Certificates

You will need multiple certified copies of the death certificate. While it may seem excessive, experts recommend ordering 10 to 15 copies. You will need these for:

1. Life insurance claims
2. Closing bank accounts
3. Transferring vehicle titles
4. Filing final tax returns
5. Social media memorialization

Meeting with Professionals

Schedule two essential meetings during this window:

1. The Funeral Director: Finalize the type of service. As of 2026, "Direct Cremations" have grown to 20% of the market due to their lower cost.
2. The Estate Attorney: Even for small estates, a 30-minute consultation can prevent massive legal headaches later.

For a broader view of the months ahead, see our After Death Admin Timeline (Practical Steps and Documents).

Financial Realities: Costs and Taxes in 2025-2026

The "cost of dying" continues to rise. In the UK, the average burial has reached £6,065, while in the US, the median cost for a funeral with burial is roughly $8,300.

The "One Big Beautiful Bill" (OBBB) Impact

For those in the United States, 2026 brings a massive change in the form of the OBBB Act. This legislation permanently raised the federal estate tax exemption to $15 million per person ($30 million for couples). This means that for the vast majority of families, federal estate taxes are no longer a concern, though state-level inheritance taxes may still apply.

Managing Cash Flow

A common pitfall is not having enough liquid cash to cover the first week's expenses.

If you are struggling with immediate costs, you may need to learn about Accessing Deceased Bank Account (Practical Steps and Documents) for funeral expenses specifically.

The Modern Challenge: The Digital Estate

The average person now leaves behind over 150 online accounts. Managing this digital footprint is a critical "week one" task.

AI and Memorialization Trends

By 2025, a rise in "legacy bots" and AI-generated video tributes has changed how families grieve. While some find comfort in AI that simulates a conversation with the deceased, 65% of people surveyed in early 2026 remain wary of the tech's impersonality. Decide early as a family if you want to use these tools for the memorial service.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Distributing Assets Too Early: As an executor, you are personally liable for the estate’s debts. If you give away jewelry or cash to family members before the funeral and taxes are paid, you may have to pay those debts out of your own pocket.
2. Neglecting the "Digital Key": Many families lose access to precious photos because they didn't check for a "Legacy Contact" on the deceased’s iPhone. Once the account is locked for inactivity, it is nearly impossible to recover.
3. Trying to "Do It All": The first week is an emotional marathon. Delegate tasks like "calling the insurance company" or "cleaning out the fridge" to friends who ask, "How can I help?"

Conclusion

The first week after death is a period of transition. It requires you to act as both a mourner and an administrator. By following a structured 7-day timeline—securing the property, obtaining the death certificates, and understanding the financial shifts of 2026—you can ensure that the legal requirements are met without sacrificing your own well-being.

If you feel overwhelmed by the sudden nature of the loss, our guide on Handling Unexpected Death: Tools, Checklists, and Essential Guides offers additional support for those navigating a crisis without a pre-made plan.