What to Do When Someone Dies in California
A step-by-step guide for the first 30 days. We know this is overwhelming. Take it one task at a time.
Use this timeline to handle immediate post-death tasks in the right order before you move into probate, asset transfer, or executor paperwork.
If You Are the Named Executor in California
If you are the named executor of a California estate, the procedural clock starts at death. Probate Code § 8200 requires you to lodge the original will with the Superior Court of the county where the decedent lived within 30 days. The first-steps below are written for that role; the family-first timeline below covers immediate practical tasks that overlap with the executor role.
- Lodge the original will with the Superior Court within 30 days
California Probate Code § 8200 requires the person in possession of the original will to deliver it to the clerk of the Superior Court in the county where the decedent lived within 30 days of death. This is a standalone deadline that runs even if formal probate is not yet open.
Statute: Cal. Probate Code § 8200
- Order 10–15 certified death certificates
California financial institutions, title-transfer agencies, and the probate court each typically require their own original. Order through the funeral home or directly from the California Department of Public Health Vital Records.
- Secure the deceased’s property and digital assets
Lock the home, change the mailbox forward, secure the vehicle, freeze credit on the decedent’s SSN, and document property condition before anything is moved. This protects the estate from depreciation and theft claims.
- Petition for Probate (Form DE-111) and request Letters Testamentary
File the Petition for Probate (DE-111), the Notice of Petition to Administer Estate (DE-121), and supporting documents with the Superior Court. Once granted, the court issues Letters Testamentary (DE-150), the document banks and title agencies require to act on behalf of the estate.
Statute: Cal. Probate Code § 8000 et seq.
- Notify financial institutions and request frozen statements
Banks, brokerages, and retirement custodians each have a death-notification process. Submit a certified death certificate and request statements as of date-of-death valuation. These statements feed the Inventory and Appraisal (Form DE-160) that the court requires once Letters issue.
Timeline of Tasks
Immediately
First Week
First Two Weeks
First Month
Who to Notify
Keep this list handy as you work through notifications.
Documents You Will Need
Gather these documents as soon as possible.
Death Certificates
Order 10-15 certified copies. You will need them for banks, insurance, property transfers, and more.
How to get death certificates →Will & Trust Documents
Look in safe deposit boxes, home safes, attorney files, and important document folders.
Probate guide →Financial Statements
Bank statements, investment accounts, retirement accounts, and recent tax returns.
Asset transfer guide →What Comes Next?
After the first 30 days, you may need to start the probate process or transfer assets. Take our free assessment to find out what applies to your situation.
Related Guides
Death Certificates
How to order certified copies
Executor Duties
What personal representatives do
Estate Checklist
Step-by-step task list
This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Probate laws and procedures in California can change. Consult with a qualified attorney for advice specific to your situation. Full disclaimer.