NECESSARY DUTIES, TASKS & CHECKLISTS
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Tax Tasks Checklist State and federal income tax returns for the deceased must be filed at the usual time, and real estate belonging to the deceased must be listed for both county and city taxes. A state inheritance tax and a federal estate tax may be due. Consult your attorney or tax preparer. Keep receipts of all bills or medical and funeral expenses and for grave markers, in addition to the usual record of deductible expenses and contributions. Establish a record of any out - standing accounts (money owed to the de - ceased) on the date of death. Deeds and Titles Tasks Checklist Jointly owned real estate in North Carolina au- tomatically goes to the spouse, regardless of the will, provided (1) the property was acquired during marriage and (2) both names appear on the deed. If the deceased’s name is listed on the mort - gage to your home, notify the company hold - ing the mortgage. Inquire if the deceased had mortgage insurance, and ask what procedure to follow. Titles on vehicles owned by the deceased must be transferred to the new owner, and any re- maining indebtedness settled. A copy of the letter testamentary or letter of administration and the vehicle registration are needed for a transfer of title. There is a fee for this service. Contact the local license plate agency for more information. The auto insurance company must be notified of a change in the title.
Financial Tasks Checklist Bank Related
A safe-deposit box held jointly or solely by the deceased can be opened only in the presence of a representative of the clerk of court who will make an inventory of the contents. Insurance Related Phone or write each company with which the deceased had a health insurance policy. Ask the agent what changes need to be made to contin - ue coverage of you. Ask if there is any premium refund due to you. Be sure to complete all nec- essary forms within one year of the death. Survivor’s Benefits If the deceased had been employed, ask the employer’s personnel department to inform you of any benefits due to you. Ask about group life insurance, unused vacation credits, CDs, stocks, and IRAs that the deceased might have had with the firm. Most families are eligible for survivor’s benefits from Social Security. If you think you may be eligible, call the local Social Security office. In some cases, the benefits begin from the date of death. Act promptly and mail all applications “Registered Mail-Return Receipt Requested.” Return and do not cash any Social Security checks bearing the name of the deceased even if you are a copayee. Many families are also eligible for survivor’s benefits from the Veterans Administration. Contact the local VA office or the regional of - fice in Winston-Salem. The VA will also provide a cemetery marker and flag for a deceased vet - eran at no charge.
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