Death Certificates: 15 Reasons You’ll Need One After a Loved One Dies — Guidance from a Seattle Probate Lawyer

When a loved one passes away, the funeral home usually orders a small stack of certified death certificates. Families often wonder, “How many copies do we really need, and what are they for?” Below is a plain‑language look at the most common situations where an official death certificate is required, along with tips to make the paperwork as painless as possible.

1. Life‑Insurance Claims

Insurance companies will not release funds until they receive a certified copy. Each separate policy will need its own certificate.

2. Bank and Credit‑Union Accounts

Most financial institutions freeze accounts once they learn of a death. Presenting a certificate unlocks funds for the executor or joint owner.

3. Retirement Plans and Pensions

Whether it’s a 401(k), 403(b), IRA, or monthly pension, plan administrators ask for a death certificate before rolling over or distributing assets to beneficiaries.

4. Social Security Benefits

The funeral director often notifies Social Security, but survivors may still need a certificate to apply for a lump‑sum death payment or to stop monthly checks.

5. Transfer‑on‑Death Brokerage Accounts

Even if the account already has a named beneficiary, brokerage firms typically request a certified copy before retitling or liquidating investments.

6. Real Estate Title Changes

Recording a death certificate with the county courthouse clears the title and allows the property to pass to a surviving joint owner, a trust, or the estate.

7. Vehicle Registrations

Departments of motor vehicles require a certified copy to retitle cars, boats, or RVs in an heir’s name.

8. Probate Filings

In many states, the probate court will not open an estate without a certified death certificate included in the initial petition.

9. Employer Benefits

Unpaid wages, accrued vacation, and group life insurance all hinge on providing proof of death to human resources departments.

10. Health Insurance Termination

Submitting a certificate stops premiums and coverage for the deceased and often triggers a premium adjustment for surviving dependents.

11. Credit Card and Personal Loan Accounts

Lenders want official proof before closing accounts or processing any credit life insurance claims.

12. Utility and Subscription Cancellations

Electric, gas, phone, streaming services, and gym memberships may request a death certificate to waive early‑termination fees.

13. Digital Asset Access

Some tech companies require a certified copy before releasing photos, email archives, or cloud storage contents to an executor.

14. Tax Filings

When final income‑tax returns are filed, the IRS recommends attaching a copy of the death certificate if the refund will be issued to someone other than a surviving spouse.

15. Unclaimed Property Claims

State treasurers will ask for a certificate when heirs search and apply for dormant accounts or uncashed checks listed as unclaimed property.

How Many Copies Should You Order?

A good rule of thumb is ten to twelve certified copies for a straightforward estate. Large estates with multiple real estate parcels, business interests, or many financial accounts may need more. Ordering extra copies through the funeral home is usually cheaper and faster than requesting them later from the vital‑records office.

Certified vs. Photocopy: Know the Difference

Certified copy
Printed on security paper with a raised or embossed seal. Accepted by courts, banks, and government agencies.

Photocopy
Fine for personal records or informal notices but rarely accepted for official purposes.

Skip the Paperwork Headaches

Handling these details while grieving can feel overwhelming. A compassionate probate lawyer can:

• Determine exactly how many death certificates your situation requires

• File the probate petition and gather assets efficiently

• Communicate with banks, insurers, and government agencies on your behalf

• Prevent costly delays and paperwork mistakes

Need help settling an estate? Contact our Seattle probate office today for a free, no‑pressure consultation. We will guide you through every step, from ordering the right number of death certificates to distributing assets according to the law and your loved one’s wishes.