N.Y.
Elder Law Section 226
Guide to actions when someone close dies
1.
The office shall publish a “Guide to Actions When Someone Close Dies”. Within one year of the effective date of this section, this guide shall be made publicly available on the official website of the office and the office may also produce a paper format.2.
The guide shall provide information in at least the following domains:(a)
Economic security, including but not limited to, pensions, social security, life insurance, health insurance, and death benefits. This information shall also refer to the resources provided by the department of taxation and finance regarding estate taxes.(b)
Legal, including how to access death certificates, wills, trust documents and other legal information needed to plan for the future.(c)
Mental health assistance, including information on the grieving process, triggers and symptoms associated with grief, effective coping strategies, the impact on family dynamics in relation to the loss of someone close, and other mental health concerns correlated with grief.(d)
Disposition of remains including funeral and service arrangements and burials. This information shall refer to the resources provided by the department of health’s bureau of funeral directing.(e)
Other information as determined by the office.3.
The office may choose to seek consultation with and advice from representatives from the following professions as well as any state agency representatives, which may include:(a)
Funeral directors;(b)
Cemeteries;(c)
Mental health professionals with specific knowledge of grief counseling;(d)
Attorneys specialized in estate planning, including the New York state bar association;(e)
Tax professionals; and(f)
Clergy.
Source:
Section 226 — Guide to actions when someone close dies, https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/laws/ELD/226 (updated Feb. 20, 2026; accessed Feb. 28, 2026).
