Why We Need Death Certificates

From experience, we have determined that you may need Certified Copies of the Death Certificate for the following purposes. Please check over your needs so that we may assist you.

1. Life Insurance – You need 1 (one) for each insurance company, regardless of the number of policies.
2. Banks – You need 1 (one) for each particularly if the accounts are in the deceased’s name only.
3. Stocks – If held by the individual or jointly owned, you need 1 (one) for each company. If held by the broker, then you need 1 (one) for each broker.
4. Bonds – You need 1 (one) for U.S. Savings Bonds. Bonds can be reissued to new co-owners. If you have corporate bonds, you will need 1 (one) for each company.
5. Real Estate – You need 1 (one) for each county in which property is owned.
6. Secretary of State – You need 1 (one). This may be used for automobile, boat and/or mobile home.
7. IRA’s – (Individual Retirement Accounts) – You need 1 (one) for each financial institution where funds are maintained.
8. CD’s – (Certificate of Deposit) – You need 1 (one) for each financial institution where funds are maintained.
9. Pension – You need 1 (one) for each pension fund.
10. Health Insurance – You may need 1 (one) if insurance is employer-provided.
11. Current Pay – You may need 1 (one) if still actively employed.
12. Vacation Pay – You may need 1 (one) if still actively employed.
13. 401K/403b/Retirement Plans – You need 1 (one) for each depository.
14. Federal Income Tax – You need 1 (one).
15. State Income Tax – You need 1 (one).
16. Local Income Tax – You need 1 (one).
17. Probate – If there is to be a Probate of the Estate, you will need at least 5 (five).