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If you die tomorrow, what does your family need to know today?

Where is the key to the safe deposit box at the bank?

Most importantly, empty out the safety deposit out immediately before they find out the box owner/renter is deceased. The bank can put a hold on the box immediately if they find out the box renter is dead. (this happened when my dad passed away, and really gave my mom grief, even though her name was on the account). It was a real pain to get things sorted out. This should be one of the very first things you should do, once you find that key.

The reason that this came to my mind was because when my Mom passed away, my Step-Dad had no idea where the key was. We were all emotional wrecks from the loss of my Mom and now we had to find a key. My sister, who has always had the knack of finding things finally found the key. My Step-Dad was then able to open the box. You have given good advice, take heed all!!

Most importantly, empty out the safety deposit out immediately before they find out the box owner/renter is deceased. The bank can put a hold on the box immediately if they find out the box renter is dead. (this happened when my dad passed away, and really gave my mom grief, even though her name was on the account). It was a real pain to get things sorted out. This should be one of the very first things you should do, once you find that key.

I do not know which state you live in.....but I would not recommend anyone "clean out" a safe deposit box after the owner has died, especially not in my state of Kentucky. If one spouse is in the hospital and the other spouse goes to the bank, that is one thing...but after the first spouse dies...it is a very bad idea. Please check with an attorney in your state.