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A teaching tool

Most of what you have been told is urgent, is not

Here is what actually expires. Only three dates in the whole year truly run out, and they are marked in ember. Everything else has no clock on it at all.

A deadline that actually expiresNo deadline, move at your own pace

  1. No deadline

    Certified death certificates

    There is no clock on this. Order several; almost every step below asks for one.

  2. Within 60 days of the notice

    COBRA health coverage election

    This one expires. You have 60 days from the date on the election notice, not from the death, to continue a workplace health plan. Miss it and the option is gone.

  3. No deadline

    Notify banks, pensions, and Social Security

    There is no clock on this. Sooner only prevents overpayments you would later have to return.

  4. No deadline

    Probate, if it is needed at all

    There is no clock on this in most states. The estate waits for you, not the other way around.

  5. The normal tax date

    Final income tax return

    Not a special deadline. It is due the same date returns are normally due for the year of death, and an extension is available like any other year.

  6. Within 2 years of burial

    VA non service connected burial allowance

    This one expires. For a non service connected death, the claim must be filed within two years of the burial. Service connected deaths have no time limit.

  7. Within 2 years

    Social Security $255 death payment

    This one expires. The one time lump sum must be claimed within two years of the death.

Deadlines vary by program and, for some benefits, by state. Confirm the dates that apply to your situation before relying on them.

This is general information, not legal, tax, financial, or medical advice for your situation. Rules vary by state and change over time. Confirm anything that carries a consequence with a qualified professional or the office that administers it.