How to Locate a Dead Person's Documents

Upon the death of a person, there are documents that may be needed to help pay bills and funeral costs. From health and life insurance policies to the property deeds, locating a dead person's documents is very important. As the next of kin or executor of the will, you'll need to locate those documents. Here are a few tips to help.

Instructions

1. Look in the most obvious places in the house. Check the file cabinets and desk drawers for insurance policies, whether health insurance or life insurance. Check any metal lock boxes or file folders for important documents. Look in the dead person's checkbook for any checks written to insurance companies, and write those dates and amounts down on paper. Contact the insurance company about the type of insurance policy, and what court documents are necessary to file a claim. Check savings account books for savings amounts and account numbers. Look through the mail of the dead person to locate any important mail recently received.

2. Check the dead person's bank for a safety deposit box. If the dead person had a safety deposit box, you'll need to have a death certificate and a letter from the probate judge giving you access to the dead person's documents. Many people keep life insurance policies, stock certificates and property deeds in safety deposit boxes.

3. Locate the dead person's wallet or purse. Some people carry important information in their wallets, including social security cards and health insurance cards with policy numbers and phone numbers to call. Check under the mattress too. Contact the dead person's close friends, to find out if the dead person gave any instructions about what to do at his death. Many people are reticent to speak with family members about their death, yet will speak with a close friend.