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<p><i>Michelle McDermott from the Money Advice and Budgeting Service (MABS) shares practical steps to help families manage financial matters after a bereavement.</i></p><p>Losing a loved one is one of life’s most difficult experiences. The emotional weight of grief is often compounded by the sudden financial responsibilities that follow. This is where the <a href="https://www.mabs.ie/en/">Money Advice and Budgeting Service (MABS)</a> can make a real difference. MABS offers free, confidential, and non-judgmental advice to help individuals and families navigate the financial stress that can accompany bereavement.</p><p>Whether it’s prioritising urgent expenses, understanding entitlements and supports, or negotiating with creditors, MABS is here to provide practical guidance during an already <a href="https://rip.ie/legal-and-financial-advice/what-to-do-when-someone-dies-in-ireland-practical-guidance-289">challenging time</a>.</p><h2>General Timeline for Addressing Financial Matters</h2><h3>Immediately After Death</h3><ul><li>Notify family and friends.</li><li>Contact a funeral director to arrange the funeral (coffin, church or cremation service, etc.).</li><li>Be prepared for a deposit or part payment for funeral expenses.</li></ul><h3>Within 3–5 Days</h3><ul><li>Secure the property to prevent unauthorised entry.</li><li>If the property remains in use, ensure bills such as utilities, mortgage/rent, and insurance premiums are paid as they fall due.</li></ul><h3>Following the Funeral</h3><ul><li>Notify financial institutions of the death. Accounts will likely be frozen, but withdrawals may be allowed for funeral expenses.</li><li>Contact the Department of Social Protection to stop any social welfare payments. Overpayments must be returned.</li></ul><h3>In the Weeks and Months After</h3><ul><li><a href="https://rip.ie/grief-and-bereavement-support/registering-a-death-in-ireland-step-by-step-guide-288">Register the death within 3 months</a> and obtain a Death Certificate from the Registrar of Births, Deaths and Marriages.</li><li>The executor (if there is a Will) or administrator (if there is no Will) begins gathering details of the estate:<ul><li>Identify assets and liabilities.</li><li>Contact banks, credit unions, insurance providers, and Revenue Commissioners.</li></ul></li><li>Apply for Grant of Representation (Probate) or Letters of Administration. A solicitor often assists with this process.</li><li>Pay essential bills (utilities, mortgage) from the estate or personally if necessary.</li><li>Non-essential <a href="https://rip.ie/legal-and-financial-advice/can-you-pay-a-deceased-family-members-debts-or-legal-advice-in-ireland-296 [rip.ie]">debts </a>(credit cards, unsecured loans) do not need immediate payment.</li><li>Consider applying for financial supports such as:<ul><li>Additional Needs Payment</li><li>Widowed/Surviving Civil Partner Grant<br /><i>(MABS can help with these applications.)</i></li></ul></li></ul><h3>Over the Following 1–3 Months</h3><ul><li><a href="https://rip.ie/grief-and-bereavement-support/youve-been-named-executor-in-a-will-what-to-do-next-265">Executor</a>/administrator works to finalise the estate. This can take time due to legal and financial complexities.</li><li>Costs associated with estate administration should be paid from the estate in this order:<ol><li>Executor costs</li><li>Funeral and related expenses</li><li>Secured debts (e.g., mortgage)</li><li>Revenue debts (income tax, Capital Gains Tax)</li><li>Nursing Home Support Scheme (Fair Deal) deferred payment (if applicable)</li><li>Social welfare overpayments</li><li>Unsecured debts (credit cards, loans, utilities)</li></ol></li><li>Only after all creditors are cleared can assets be distributed according to the Will.</li></ul><h3>Important Note</h3><p>Executors/administrators have a legal duty to prioritise creditors before distributing assets. Failure to do so can result in personal liability. Seek professional legal or financial advice during estate administration.<br /><i>MABS can assist with creditor engagement and help reduce stress during this process.</i></p><h2>Summary Table: Typical Costs and Timeframes</h2><figure class="table"><table><thead><tr><th>Stage</th><th>Typical Costs</th><th>Timeframe</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><th>Upon death / within first few weeks</th><td>Funeral Expenses: €4,000–€15,000</td><td>Payable within 1–6 months</td></tr><tr><th>2–4 Months after death</th><td>Probate / Administration Fees: €200–€1,500</td><td>Deducted from the estate</td></tr><tr><th>Ongoing</th><td>Estate Management (mortgage, utilities): Varies</td><td>Paid as they fall due</td></tr></tbody></table></figure><h3>Need Help?</h3><p>Contact MABS for free, confidential advice on managing finances after a bereavement.<br />Visit: <a href="https://www.mabs.ie/en/">www.mabs.ie</a></p>

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Timeline and Plan for Financial Matters After a Loved One Dies

<p><i>This article is one of a series, and while it can be read on its own, is designed to be read along with the articles “</i><a href="https://rip.ie/legal-and-financial-advice/what-should-you-consider-when-making-a-will-257"><i>What Should You Consider When Making A Will?</i></a><i>” and “</i><a href="https://rip.ie/legal-and-financial-advice/what-happens-if-you-dont-make-a-will-258"><i>What Happens If You Don’t Make A Will?</i></a><i>” </i></p><h3>Introduction</h3><p>A will is a written document that lets you decide what happens to your property and assets in the event of your death. A will can also set out who should take care of young children. Importantly, it also stipulates who will manage your affairs after your death. It can be a difficult topic to think about, or discuss, but it is crucial, especially if you have young children. </p><p><span style="color:#1F1F1F">If you die without a will, you won’t have a say in who receives your property and other assets (including your pets). You won’t have a say in who manages your estate. If you have children, you miss out on the opportunity to nominate a trusted, responsible guardian for them. Not having a will can make it more difficult for your loved ones after you pass away.</span></p><p><span style="color:#1F1F1F">Wills aren’t just for the sick or elderly - in fact, every adult should consider making one. </span></p><h3>Who Gets What?</h3><p>You are the person best to decide how you want to divide your money and assets. Remember, nobody knows your wishes and your family as well as you do. </p><p>Firstly, you should think about how you would like to divide your money and assets. You should have a good idea about what you own, either in your sole name or jointly with your spouse or civil partner. You should think about what you would be leaving behind and who you want it to go to.</p><p>There are legal protections for your spouse, or civil partner, and your children, but most people provide for their family as fairly as possible in their will. Partners outside marriage are not protected to the same extent. </p><p>Your spouse, or civil partner, has a legal right to a share in your estate: one third if you have children and one half if you don’t have children. If you are separated or divorced, the Court should have dealt with this. </p><p>When it comes to your children, you should consider their ages; their education; any financial support you previously provided; what they now own; and their line of work. </p><p>In some cases, the older and wealthier they are, the less help they may need. Your children are not entitled to a fixed share like a spouse or civil partner, but they can apply to Court if not properly provided for by what the law describes as a “just and prudent parent.”</p><p>Many wills made by married couples leave everything to each other with a “gift over” clause/option, which states that if the other spouse also dies, all property goes to the children. If the children are very young, the “gift over” clause/option ensures everything goes to trustees to mind the assets for young children.</p><h3>Who Handles This?</h3><p>The person who takes care of your affairs in the event of your death is called your Executor or Executrix. This can be a very demanding and emotional role. You can appoint more than one. You should let them know beforehand that you will be assigning them this role, and where they can find your will, should anything happen to you. </p><p>If you are leaving property to young children, as stated above, you might think about including a trust for those children, and appointing Trustees to manage any money or assets left for them while they are under 18, or even slightly older. </p><p>A trust is where people called Trustees hold the assets “in trust” for the benefit of the children until the children reach 18, which is when they can own the property.  You might also think about appointing Guardians, who would take over your role in raising the children until they turn 18.</p><p>In the event of one parent’s death, the surviving parent is automatically assigned as guardian, but if both parents were to die –in a car crash for example –  someone has to be appointed to mind them. This is a very difficult, but important decision to make, and should be considered carefully.</p><h3>Summary</h3><p>People, especially those with young children, should think about making a will to provide for their loved ones in the event of their death. They should think about dividing their assets fairly, taking their spouse’s rights into account, picking the right person to manage their affairs on death, if a trust is to be created, and who is to mind their young children. </p><p><strong>Padraic Courtney is a Solicitor and Secretary to the Probate, Administration &amp; Trusts Committee of the </strong><a href="https://www.lawsociety.ie/"><strong>Law Society of Ireland</strong></a><strong>. </strong></p><p><i>Disclaimer: Please note that this article is for general information purposes only and does not purport to be legal advice. While every care has been taken in its production, no legal responsibility or liability is accepted warranted or implied by the author, publishers or the Law Society of Ireland in respect of any errors, omissions or misstatement. Readers are advised to seek independent professional legal advice before acting on anything in this article. </i></p>

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Why Make a Will?

<h3>What is a Memory Box?</h3><p>A memory box is a container filled with photos, notes, and mementoes that remind you of someone special. A memory box can provide gentle<a href="https://rip.ie/grief-and-bereavement-support/coping-with-grief-this-christmas-300"> comfort during the grieving process, especially at Christmas.</a> At a time when life may feel uncertain or overwhelming, choosing what to place inside it can <a href="https://rip.ie/grief-and-bereavement-support/when-everything-feels-overwhelming-one-breath-at-a-time-237">bring a sense of grounding and control</a>. Each time added becomes an intentional act of love, creating a personal tribute to the one you're missing. For children and adults alike, it provides a safe and gentle space to <a href="https://rip.ie/grief-and-bereavement-support/honouring-your-childs-memory-finding-ways-to-remember-261">honour loved ones</a>, share stories, and reflect on the impact they had on your life. Over time, the box can become a cherished family keepsake that grows and evolves with your memories. </p><h3>Steps for Creating a Memory Box</h3><h4>Choosing the Box</h4><p>Firstly, choose a container that feels special. It can be a wooden box, a decorative tin, or even a strong cardboard box. Consider the size of the box, as it should be large enough to hold the items you want to include. The important thing is that it feels right to you and reflects the personality of your loved one.</p><h4>Gathering Items</h4><p>Gather meaningful items such as photographs, letters, jewellery, or small personal belongings that remind you of your loved one. Include anything you feel is special and sparks fond memories.</p><h4>Including Each Family Member</h4><p>Invite family members and friends who are also grieving to contribute items. Including everyone guarantees that the box reflects shared memories. This can create a sense of community and can help others to feel included.</p><h3>How to Use It During the Christmas Season</h3><p>Place the memory box somewhere visible during the Christmas period, such as near the Christmas tree or communal space. Open it together on special occasions, sharing memories, telling stories, or explaining the significance of each item. The box can serve as a gentle conversation starter, helping children and adults alike express their feelings and remember their loved ones. A Christmas memory box can become a cherished family tradition, offering a way to celebrate, remember, and reflect on loved ones. Making it a yearly ritual helps keep memories alive and brings comfort, connection, and healing to the entire family.</p><p>Remember, there's no right or wrong way to create a memory box. It's a personal space that can reflect your loved one and the unique bond you shared. Fill it with whatever feels meaningful; there are no rules. Whether you keep your memory box just for yourself or choose to share it with family, it can become a comforting reminder of their life and the memories that bring you closer to them.</p><p> </p>

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Creating a Memory Box for Christmas: A Family Activity 

<h3>Why Christmas Can Trigger Strong Emotions</h3><p>The <a href="https://rip.ie/grief-and-bereavement-support/coping-with-grief-this-christmas-300">Christmas period can be a difficult time for those who are missing loved ones.</a> Holiday traditions, family gatherings, and shared meals often highlight their absence. Joyful moments may carry a tinge of sadness as we notice the empty chair, the missing voice, or the celebrations that once included them. Acknowledging these feelings and finding ways to remember those who have passed can help families process grief and feel connected to their loved ones. Honouring a loved one during Christmas through rituals can bring comfort and create meaningful ways to celebrate their life.</p><h3><strong>10 Ways to Honour a Loved One</strong></h3><p><strong>Light a remembrance candle.</strong></p><p>Lighting a <a href="https://shop.rip.ie/ecc/products.php?cat=8">candle</a> in memory of your loved one can be a simple yet powerful act of remembrance. It provides a moment of reflection and connection during the busy season.</p><p><strong>Hang a personalised ornament.</strong></p><p>Choose or create an ornament that reminds you of them. Hanging it on the tree each year can be a gentle tribute and a way to feel their presence during the holidays.</p><p><strong>Prepare their favourite dish.</strong></p><p>Cook a meal or dessert they loved. Including their favourite foods at your Christmas table can spark memories and allow their spirit to be part of your celebrations.</p><p><strong>Visit their resting place.</strong></p><p>Consider visiting your loved one at their place of rest, whether on Christmas Day or during the season. You can leave something meaningful, such as flowers, a candle, or a photograph. This peaceful act can offer comfort and a tangible connection to your loved one.</p><p><strong>Create a small tribute space at home.</strong></p><p>Set up a corner with photos, candles, or meaningful objects that honour your loved one. This dedicated space can serve as a reminder of their life and provide a place for quiet reflection.</p><p><strong>Donate or volunteer in their name.</strong></p><p>Give back to a charity, community project, or cause that holds meaning for them. Acts of kindness in their memory celebrate their values and help continue their legacy.</p><p><strong>Share stories.</strong></p><p>Encourage family and friends to tell stories, recall happy moments, or talk about lessons learned from your loved one. Sharing memories helps keep their spirit alive and strengthens family bonds.</p><p><strong>Create a photo slideshow or playlist.</strong></p><p>Compile photos, videos, or <a href="https://rip.ie/grief-and-bereavement-support/remember-me-by-christie-hennessy-a-song-of-comfort-and-remembrance-284">music</a> that remind you of your loved one. Sharing these memories during Christmas can spark joy and gentle reflection.</p><p><strong>Write them a Christmas letter.</strong></p><p><a href="https://rip.ie/grief-and-bereavement-support/building-self-compassion-after-suicide-loss-a-gentle-guide-to-letter-writing-251">Writing letters</a> to your loved one can be a therapeutic way to express your feelings and keep their memory alive. You can write about your day, share memories, or simply express how much you miss them. </p><p><strong>Start a new tradition in their memory. </strong></p><p>Introduce a new holiday ritual, like a walk, craft, or special activity. Carrying it on each year creates a gentle way to honour them, celebrate their life, and make new shared memories. </p><h3><strong>Closing Thoughts </strong></h3><p>Remember, there is no right or wrong way to honour someone during the holidays. Any form of remembrance, big or small, is meaningful. What matters most is that it brings comfort, keeps memories alive, and allows you to celebrate the love and joy your loved one brought into your life.</p>

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