[rob62521]

Dear Josie,

First, I am very sorry for your loss. It's never easy to lose a parent. I lost my mom August 2006 and I'm still dealing with things and my name was on everything. I don't know where you live, but I imagine your state has a probate law. That's when the bill collectors have to get their bills in so you can pay them. If your dad had health insurance be sure to watch the bills and question stuff they didn't pay otherwise the estate will have to pay for these items. I spent four weeks arguing with my mom's supplemental insurance as well as the hospital all because someone in the billing office didn't put one little item in the computer. It would have cost me $957 if I hadn't argued over it.

Your lawyer can probably tell you what you need to do legally. Most places will help you if you ask how to do stuff, but may not give you information until you can prove you are the executor or have poa. If you dad had a vehicle and you want to sell it, contact the division of motor vehicles in your town and they will give you information on how to sign the title over.

I agree with most of the people on this board -- take it slow before you do too much on the investments. You've just been through a huge loss and your emotions will be up and down. Putting the money in a decent interest bearing account is a wise move. You don't want to tie the money up because you will have bills to pay plus you will probably have to file your dad's tax returns and you may have to pay, depending on what the estate looks like. When my mil died a few years ago, we paid to have the tax returns done since they tax folks knew a whole lot more on how to do it than we did.

Hang in there. Let yourself grieve and mourn. Remember the good things about your dad. My prayers are with you.