What paperwork needs to be filed after someone dies?

After a death, families typically need to file 47+ forms including: IRS Form SS-4 (estate EIN), IRS Form 56 (executor notice), Social Security death notification, SSA-8 lump-sum benefit, SSA-10 survivor benefits, final 1040 tax return, life insurance claims, probate petition, and notifications to banks, credit bureaus, and government agencies.

How do I apply for a Social Security death benefit?

You can claim the $255 Social Security lump-sum death benefit (SSA-8) by calling 1-800-772-1213 or visiting your local Social Security office. You must claim within 2 years of the death. A surviving spouse or dependent child is eligible. LastingPath provides a step-by-step wizard for SSA-8.

Do I need probate if someone dies without a will?

It depends on the estate value and state. Many states allow small estates under $50,000–$100,000 to skip probate using a Small Estate Affidavit. Estates above the threshold typically require probate court even without a will. LastingPath helps you determine if you qualify for the small estate process.

What is an estate EIN and do I need one?

An estate EIN (Employer Identification Number) is a tax ID for the deceased's estate. You need one to open an estate bank account, file the estate tax return (Form 1041), and handle most financial transactions. You apply for it using IRS Form SS-4, which LastingPath can guide you through in minutes.

How do I get an EIN for an estate?

File IRS Form SS-4 to obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN) for the deceased's estate. You can apply online at irs.gov, by fax, or by mail. The EIN is required to open an estate bank account, file estate tax returns, and manage financial transactions on behalf of the estate. LastingPath walks you through the SS-4 application step by step.

What is Form 56 and when do I need to file it?

Form 56 is the Notice Concerning Fiduciary Relationship filed with the IRS. It formally notifies the IRS that you (the executor, administrator, or personal representative) are acting on behalf of the deceased's estate. You should file Form 56 as soon as you are appointed by the court or named in the will. LastingPath's guided wizard helps you complete and file Form 56 correctly.

How do I claim Social Security survivor benefits?

File SSA-10 for monthly survivor benefits if you are a surviving spouse, dependent child, or other eligible dependent. You can apply by calling Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 or visiting your local office. Survivor benefits can provide ongoing monthly income based on the deceased's earnings record. LastingPath guides you through the SSA-10 application process.

What is the deadline for filing estate tax returns?

Form 706 (United States Estate Tax Return) is due 9 months after the date of death. You can request an automatic 6-month extension using Form 4768. For 2026, estates exceeding $13.61 million in gross assets are required to file. The estate income tax return (Form 1041) is due on April 15 of the year following death. LastingPath tracks these deadlines and sends reminders.

How do I notify creditors of a death?

Send written notice to known creditors within the timeframe required by your state (typically 30–90 days after appointment). Most states also require publishing a notice in a local newspaper to notify unknown creditors. Creditors then have a limited window (usually 3–6 months) to file claims against the estate. LastingPath's Creditor Shield tool helps you manage creditor notifications and analyze claims.

Do I need probate if the estate is small?

Many states allow small estate affidavits for estates below a certain threshold, typically $25,000 to $200,000 depending on the state. A small estate affidavit lets you transfer assets without going through formal probate court proceedings, saving significant time and legal fees. LastingPath covers small estate affidavit guidance for all 50 states and helps you determine if you qualify.

How do I transfer a vehicle title after death?

Contact your state DMV with the death certificate, the vehicle title, and proof of your authority as executor or heir (Letters Testamentary or small estate affidavit). Requirements vary by state — some require an odometer reading, emissions test, or notarized affidavit. LastingPath's vehicle transfer wizard provides state-specific instructions and required documents.

What is a Letters Testamentary?

A Letters Testamentary is a court document that officially grants the executor authority to act on behalf of the estate. It is issued by the probate court after the will is validated. Banks, insurance companies, and government agencies require Letters Testamentary before they will release assets or information. If there is no will, the equivalent document is called Letters of Administration.

How long does estate administration typically take?

Simple estates take 6–12 months to fully settle, while complex estates with real property, business interests, or contested claims can take 1–3 years. Key milestones include obtaining the EIN (week 1), filing IRS and SSA notifications (month 1), completing probate (months 3–12), and making final distributions. LastingPath provides a personalized timeline and deadline tracker for your estate.

Can I handle estate administration without a lawyer?

Yes, for straightforward estates with clear beneficiaries, no disputes, and assets below the estate tax threshold, many executors handle administration themselves. LastingPath provides guided wizards for every form and task, AI-powered assistance for questions, and state-specific guidance. For complex situations involving business assets, tax planning, or family disputes, consulting an estate attorney is recommended.

Estate Planning

Estate Administration Timeline: Month-by-Month Checklist

Q: How long does estate administration take?

Simple estates with no real estate and under the small estate threshold can be settled in 1–3 months. Estates going through probate typically take 6–18 months. Most time-sensitive tasks (Social Security, IRS notifications, creditor notices) have deadlines within the first 60–90 days.

8 min read·Published March 9, 2026·By LastingPath Team

How Long Does Estate Administration Take?

Most estates take 9 to 18 months to fully settle. Simple estates with no real property, few accounts, and no disputes can be wrapped up in 3-6 months. Complex estates with real estate, business interests, tax issues, or family disagreements can take two years or more.

This timeline gives you a realistic month-by-month guide so you know what to expect and can plan accordingly.

Month 1: Immediate Actions (Weeks 1-4)

Obtain certified death certificates (order 10-15)
Notify Social Security Administration
Secure the home and physical assets
Locate the will, trust documents, and insurance policies
Contact a funeral home and make arrangements

File the will with the county probate court (if applicable)
Apply for the estate EIN using IRS Form SS-4
File Form 56 (Notice Concerning Fiduciary Relationship) with the IRS
Open an estate bank account
Begin redirecting mail to your address

File for survivor benefits with Social Security (Form SSA-10)
File life insurance claims
Notify employer, pension, and retirement account administrators
Contact health insurance, Medicare, and Medicaid as applicable
Begin inventory of all assets and debts

Months 2-3: Notifications and Claims

Publish creditor notice in local newspaper (required in most states)
Send written notice to all known creditors
File claims with insurance companies (life, auto, homeowners)
Transfer vehicle titles if needed
Contact investment and brokerage firms
File for VA benefits if the deceased was a veteran
Cancel or transfer subscriptions and digital accounts

Months 4-6: Financial Management

Prepare estate inventory for the court (if in probate)
Pay valid creditor claims from estate funds
Dispute invalid or time-barred creditor claims
File the deceased's final personal tax return (Form 1040, due April 15 of the year after death)
Begin preparing Form 1041 (estate income tax return) if the estate earned income
Manage ongoing estate expenses (property maintenance, insurance, utilities)

Months 7-9: Resolution

Receive creditor claim period closure (typically 3-6 months after publication)
Resolve any contested claims
Complete property appraisals
Sell real estate or other assets if directed by the will
File Form 706 (estate tax return) if the estate exceeds the federal exemption ($13.61 million in 2026)
Prepare preliminary distribution accounting

Months 10-12: Distribution

File final estate income tax return (Form 1041)
Prepare a final accounting for beneficiaries
Obtain court approval for distribution (if in probate)
Distribute assets to beneficiaries according to the will or state intestacy laws
Close the estate bank account
File a closing letter with the probate court

Months 13-18: Final Wrap-Up

Address any late-arriving creditor claims or tax notices
File amended returns if necessary
Obtain tax clearance letters from the IRS and state
Close the estate formally with the court
Retain estate records for at least 7 years

Your Next Step

Feeling overwhelmed? LastingPath breaks this entire timeline into a personalized, prioritized checklist based on your specific situation — your state, the estate size, and which forms actually apply. Create your free estate checklist and let us organize the chaos for you.

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Disclaimer: LastingPath is not a law firm and does not provide legal or tax advice. This article provides general information only. Laws vary by state and individual circumstances differ — consult a licensed attorney or CPA for advice specific to your situation.