What to do after a death: the checklist

After a death, you do not have to arrange everything at once. Some matters require immediate attention; others can wait until it is clear who is authorised and what the estate looks like. This order helps you keep an overview.

Contact a doctor to confirm the death and involve a funeral director if you want help with the funeral. The death must be registered with the municipality; the funeral director often arranges this. Gather the most important documents, such as identity details, insurance information and any funeral wishes. Also make sure the home is secure and that pets or people who depended on the deceased are cared for.

Check whether there is a will and whether an executor has been appointed. A notary can consult the Central Wills Register. Make an initial overview of bank accounts, assets, debts, insurance policies and ongoing obligations. Report the death to relevant organisations and providers, but do not cancel everything automatically: some agreements or insurance policies may still be needed during settlement.

Are you an heir? Do not choose too quickly between unconditional acceptance, beneficial acceptance or rejection. Selling estate assets or taking them for yourself can mean you have accepted the inheritance unconditionally. Paying the funeral from the estate is an exception according to the Dutch government. If you are unsure about debts, seek advice first.

Where needed, request a certificate of inheritance, manage the estate according to the applicable powers and prepare a complete estate inventory. Then arrange outstanding debts, tax matters and, where possible, distribution. Agree with the heirs who maintains contact with organisations and where documents are kept.

The Inheritance Guide helps plan the steps, gather information and monitor what has already been arranged. That way, you do not have to oversee everything yourself during a difficult period.

Have you just experienced a death? We help you determine what needs attention first.