Get started creating your estate plan with MyAdvocate.com by clicking the link below! Documents valid in all 50 states. -- Sometimes, after a spouse dies, the surviving spouse assumes that they don't need to tend to any estate legal matters. While every situation is unique, the following is generally what should happen after a spouse passes away. Within a couple of weeks after your spouse dies, you should determine whether a probate is necessary. Take a look at real estate titles, bank account titles, brokerage account titles, and vehicle registration or titles. If assets such as these are in the name of your deceased spouse, you may need to see an attorney about conducting the probate to clear up the frozen assets and remove your deceased spouse's name from these assets. Once death certificates arrive, complete the handling of those beneficiary designation items, such as annuities, life insurance, IRAs, and other retirement accounts. If your spouse, or you and
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