Business Owner Death and Complex Estates
What happens to an LLC when a member dies?
Short answer
Depends on the operating agreement. Most California LLCs require the surviving members to follow the agreement's buyout, succession, or dissolution provisions. If the deceased was the sole member, the LLC is managed by the personal representative until wound down or transferred. Check…
What this usually means
Depends on the operating agreement. Most California LLCs require the surviving members to follow the agreement's buyout, succession, or dissolution provisions. If the deceased was the sole member, the LLC is managed by the personal representative until wound down or transferred. Check the operating agreement first — it governs everything.
What to do next
- Start the PathAfter checklist for situation-aware first steps.
- Find California county help for coroner contacts, vital records, cost tools, and paperwork.
- Open the First 72 Hours Call Log before making calls.
- Open the Documents to Find Checklist when you are ready for paperwork.