Estate Transition Checklist

Managing an estate through a transition or after a loved one passes away can quickly become overwhelming and complex.

Use this comprehensive checklist to guide you carefully through the essential steps, organized into clear and manageable categories to make the process easier and more efficient.

🔴 Immediate Actions

These tasks should be addressed as soon as possible to ensure legal compliance and property security.

🏛️ Government Agencies

  • Obtain Death Certificates (multiple copies recommended).
    ➔ Vital Statistics BC – Learn more

  • Notify Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) to update tax records and benefits.
    ➔ 1-800-959-8281 | CRA Website

  • Apply for CPP Death Benefit and Survivor Benefits, if applicable.
    ➔ Service Canada: 1-800-277-9914 | CPP Death Benefit

  • Contact ICBC to transfer vehicle ownership or cancel insurance.
    ➔ 1-800-663-3051 | ICBC Deceased Owner Transfer

  • Contact WorkSafe BC if the deceased was receiving benefits.
    ➔ 1-888-967-5377 | WorkSafe BC

🏡 Home & Insurance

  • Notify home insurance provider to update coverage to vacant home insurance if unoccupied.

  • Arrange regular home checks (often required for vacant insurance validity).

  • Continue lawn maintenance, yard services, snow removal, and mail pickup to maintain property value and security.

  • Cancel or transfer private utilities and services:

    • Electricity

    • Natural gas

    • Municipal utilities (water, garbage, sewer)

    • Compost/organics removal

    • Maid or cleaning services

    • Private garbage/recycling contracts

💰 Asset Ownership & Financials

  • Notify banks and credit unions.
    ➔ Suspend debit/credit cards to prevent unauthorized usage.
    ➔ Open an Estate Account to manage estate funds as executor.

  • Contact investment advisors and pension plans to update accounts or arrange transfers.

  • Update Land Titles and Survey Authority (LTSA) for property ownership changes.
    ➔ LTSA Website

🏦 Credit & Loyalty Programs

  • Cancel or transfer loyalty rewards points (e.g. Air Miles, Aeroplan) to beneficiaries if permitted.

  • Notify credit card companies to close accounts and prevent identity fraud.

🌐 Social Media & Online Accounts

  • Close or memorialize social media profiles (Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, etc.).

  • Cancel online subscriptions (streaming, newspapers, software accounts).

🤝 Memberships & Connections

  • Notify any clubs, associations, or alumni groups to end memberships.

  • Cancel professional licenses if applicable.

🟢 Secondary Steps

These can be addressed in the following weeks as estate administration progresses.

  • Review all insurance policies (life, home, vehicle, travel) for claims or cancellations.

  • Return government-issued documents (BC Services Card, driver’s license, passport).

  • Update contact information with other service providers.

  • Consult an estate lawyer or notary to ensure probate and legal obligations are fulfilled.

💡 Helpful Tips After a Death