Notify banks, the DMV, and close/transfer accounts

Why it matters

Sole accounts freeze pending probate; joint and POD accounts pass to the survivor/beneficiary. The DMV and voter rolls should also be updated.

How to do it

1. Notify each bank with a certified death certificate.
2. Cancel the driver's license at the DMV (also prevents ID fraud) and update vehicle titles within the estate.
3. Cancel passports and notify the voter registration office.

Watch out for

• Identity theft of the person who died ("ghosting")

Do this first

• Order many certified copies of the death certificate