Personal Representative’s First Week Checklist (Executor’s Guide for Michigan)
When a loved one passes away, the emotional toll can be overwhelming. At the same time, the person responsible for managing the estate—legally called the Personal Representative in Michigan, but often referred to as the executor in other states—carries immediate responsibilities that can feel daunting. This checklist is designed to help Personal Representatives navigate the critical first week with clarity and care, ensuring that key steps are taken to protect assets, inform the right parties, and set the estate administration process on a solid footing.
Immediate Actions: Within the First 1–3 Days
1. Secure the Property
Change locks if needed to protect the home and belongings.
Confirm all real property is insured. Notify the insurance company if any property is now vacant.
If the decedent had a revocable living trust, verify that real property is titled correctly and insured under the trust.
2. Locate the Estate Planning Documents
Find the original will and any trust documents or amendments.
If a will is located, file it with the probate court in the county where the decedent lived.
3. Obtain Certified Death Certificates
Order multiple copies from the funeral home or the county clerk’s office. You’ll need them for banks, insurers, and government agencies.
4. Notify Immediate Contacts
Inform close family members and loved ones.
Contact the decedent’s employer, if applicable.
Notify any in-home caregivers or service providers.
Next Steps: Days 4–7
5. Contact Key Agencies and Institutions
Social Security Administration: Most funeral homes notify the SSA, but follow up to ensure it’s completed.
Insurance Companies: Notify life, auto, health, and homeowners insurers. Cancel or adjust coverage as needed.
Post Office: File a change of address to redirect mail to the Personal Representative.
Health Insurance: Cancel or adjust coverage, including Medicare or Medicaid.
Retirement Plans and Pensions: Contact plan administrators to report the death and begin benefit claims.
Register of Deeds: If a Lady Bird Deed (transfer on death) exists, file the death certificate and property transfer affidavit within 45 days.
6. Begin Gathering Important Documents
Passwords to digital and financial accounts.
Tax returns (last two years).
Annuity contracts and retirement account statements.
Deeds, titles, and recent property tax bills.
List of all known assets and their estimated value.
List of creditors and amounts owed.
Names, addresses, and Social Security numbers of beneficiaries.
Photos/videos of tangible personal property.
Business records, if the deceased was part of a closely-held business.
7. Review and Begin Managing Utilities and Subscriptions
Cancel unnecessary services like cable or newspapers.
Maintain essential utilities to preserve property.
Notify banks and credit card companies to prevent fraud.
8. Review Final Wishes
Check estate planning documents for funeral wishes or guidance on specific bequests.
A Compassionate Start
Taking action early in the estate process provides both legal protection and peace of mind. Whether you've been officially appointed or are stepping in temporarily to help manage a loved one's affairs, this first-week checklist helps ensure that the most urgent matters are addressed with care.
If you have questions about your role as a Personal Representative in Michigan or need help filing a will or starting the probate process, JM Thomas Law is here to walk beside you.