Order many certified copies of the death certificate

Why it matters

Almost every institution — banks, insurers, Social Security, the DMV — wants an original certified copy. People routinely underestimate how many they need.

How to do it

1. The funeral home usually files for the certificate and can order copies; otherwise the county/state vital records office issues them.
2. Order 10–15 certified copies up front — getting more later is slower and you will need them in parallel.

Do this first

• Get the death legally pronounced

This unlocks

• Notify Social Security and claim survivor benefits
• Locate the will and open probate (state-specific)
• Notify banks, the DMV, and close/transfer accounts
• Claim life insurance and retirement/employer benefits
• Flag the credit files to prevent identity theft ("ghosting")