Settle
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You've handled the most urgent items. This week is about financial accounts.

Three things for today

Financial accounts

Call First National Bank to begin closing Robert's account

Robert's checking account needs to be closed or transferred. The bank requires notification within 90 days of the date of passing. This call starts that process — you don't have to finish everything today.

About 20 minutes  ·  Phone call

What you'll need

What to say

"Hi, my name is Sandra Kowalski. I'm calling because my husband, Robert Kowalski, passed away on January 14th, 2026. His account number is [check your documents]. I have a certified death certificate. I need to begin the process of closing or transferring his account. Can you direct me to the right department?"

It's fine to say: "I don't have that with me right now — can I call back?" Banks handle this regularly. You won't lose your place. Write down the rep's name, what they asked for, and the direct number before you hang up.
This is common. Each time, repeat the first two sentences of the script. Ask for the bank's "estate services" or "bereavement" team. If it feels like too much today, it's okay to hang up and try another day — this task will still be here.

The SSA needs to know about Robert's passing so they can stop future payments. Any benefit received after the date of death must be returned. Notifying within 30 days protects you from having to repay money.

What you'll need

  • Death certificate (certified copy)
  • Robert's Social Security number
  • Your Social Security number
  • Your marriage certificate

What to say

"Hi, I'm calling to report a death. My husband, Robert Kowalski, passed away on January 14th, 2026. His Social Security number is [Robert's SSN]. I'm his spouse, Sandra Kowalski. I need to report his death and find out about any survivor benefits I may be eligible for."

Stopping the monthly billing saves money immediately. Most carriers handle this online or by phone in just a few minutes — no paperwork required, and no deadline on this one.

What you'll need

  • Robert's phone number
  • Last 4 digits of his SSN (often used as account PIN)
  • Death certificate (some carriers ask, not all)

What to say

"Hi, I need to cancel a line on this account. The account holder, Robert Kowalski, passed away on January 14th, 2026. I'm his spouse and I'd like to cancel his line and stop the billing. The number is [his phone number]."

Ordered 10 certified death certificates
Completed at 9:14 AM

How are you doing?

Noted. Take it at your pace today.

That's understandable. Even opening this is something. No pressure to do all three.

Save and close — we'll be here when you're ready.