Someone died in New York. Start here.
What to Do When Someone Dies in New York
The first 24 hours, in order, then the first week and the first month, with New York's actual rules for death certificates, cremation, and probate. This page is free. No account required.
Sources: official New York 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 New York rules that matter this week
These figures come from the same data as our full New York guide, built from state statutes and official agencies.
Death certificate
Filed within 3 days
The funeral home usually files it. Order 10 or more certified copies ($15 per copy); banks, insurers, and agencies each want an original.
Source: NY Public Health Law § 4140 (2024) ↗Cremation
48-hour wait
New York requires a permit before cremation. The funeral home or crematory handles the paperwork; you sign the authorization.
Source: NY Public Health Law § 4200 (Disposition of Remains); NY … ↗Probate
$50,000 small-estate line
Estates under the threshold can use New York's simplified process instead of full probate. Typical timeline: 1–3 years.
Source: NY SCPA § 1301 (Small Estate); NY SCPA Article 14 (Probate) ↗Estate tax
Yes, this state has one
New York taxes some estates or inheritances. Most families still owe nothing, but check the guide before distributing anything.
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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