Someone died in California. Start here.
What to Do When Someone Dies in California
The first 24 hours, in order, then the first week and the first month, with California's actual rules for death certificates, cremation, and probate. This page is free. No account required.
Sources: official California statutes and agencies, linked below. Last full review: June 2026.
The First 24 Hours
The first 24 hours are the hardest. You're in shock. Here's exactly what needs to happen. In order.
The California rules that matter this week
These figures come from the same data as our full California guide, built from state statutes and official agencies.
Death certificate
Filed within 8 days
The funeral home usually files it. Order 10 or more certified copies ($24 per copy); banks, insurers, and agencies each want an original.
Source: Cal. Health & Safety Code § 102775 (2025) ↗Cremation
24-hour wait
California requires a permit before cremation. The funeral home or crematory handles the paperwork; you sign the authorization.
Source: Cal. Health & Safety Code §§ 7000–7100, 8340–8360 (2024) ↗Probate
$208,850 small-estate line
Estates under the threshold can use California's simplified process instead of full probate. Typical timeline: 12–18 months.
Source: Cal. Probate Code §§ 13006, 13100–13116 (AB 2016, eff. Ap… ↗Estate tax
None in this state
California has no state estate or inheritance tax. The federal estate tax only reaches estates over $15 million (2026).
Days 2–7 · 1–7 days
The First Week
The fog is still thick, but decisions have to be made. Here's what needs to happen in the first week.
Weeks 2–4 · 1–4 weeks
The First Month
The acute crisis is over. Now comes the long administrative slog. This is the part nobody warns you about.
The Long Game · 1 month+
Beyond the First Month
Estate administration can take 6–18 months. Here's what the long tail looks like.
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