What To Do When Someone Dies

Losing a loved one is one of the most challenging experiences anyone can face. It can bring a flood of emotions, making it difficult to think clearly and know what steps to take. Understanding the immediate and longer-term actions required when someone passes away can help ease the burden during this difficult time. Here’s a guide on what to do when someone dies, covering everything from notifying family to protecting their legacy.

Immediate Steps After A Loved One Passes Away

Confirm the Death

If the death occurs at home and was expected, such as in hospice care, contact the attending nurse or healthcare provider to officially confirm the death. For an unexpected death, you may need to call emergency services. Only a medical professional can officially pronounce someone deceased.

Notify Family and Close Friends

Once the death has been confirmed, begin notifying close family members and friends. This can be an emotionally taxing process, so don’t hesitate to ask for help. You might also consider using a family spokesperson or group messaging tool to relay information efficiently to extended family and mutual friends.

Inform Authorities (If Necessary)

If the death was unexpected or occurred outside of a hospital, contact the local police or coroner’s office. They may need to investigate the cause of death and file a report before issuing a death certificate.

Arrange for Transportation of the Body

After confirming the death and completing any necessary legal or medical examinations, arrange for the transportation of the body. Contact a funeral home or cremation service to assist with this process.

Secure the Home and Belongings

If your loved one lived alone, ensure their home is locked and valuables are secure. Inform neighbors or the landlord, if applicable, and consider removing perishable items from the home.

Obtaining a Death Certificate

The death certificate is a vital document that you will need for many legal and administrative tasks. Typically, the funeral home or medical provider will help initiate this process. You may need multiple certified copies—often 10 or more—to handle affairs such as:

• Closing bank accounts

• Claiming life insurance

• Transferring property titles

Request these copies early to avoid delays in settling your loved one’s estate.

Planning the Funeral or Memorial Service

Determine Final Wishes

Check if your loved one left instructions regarding their funeral or memorial service. These details might be in their will, a separate document, or communicated verbally to family members.

Contact a Funeral Home

Select a funeral home to help coordinate the arrangements. Funeral directors can guide you through the process of:

• Choosing burial or cremation

• Planning the service

• Writing and publishing an obituary

Notify Attendees

Inform friends, family, and acquaintances about the service details. Social media and online memorial pages can be helpful tools for sharing information widely.

Handle Financial Considerations

Funerals can be costly, so review available resources, such as life insurance, pre-paid funeral plans, or contributions from family members. Be mindful of staying within budget while honoring your loved one’s wishes.

Important Steps in the Weeks That Follow

Locate the Will and Executor

One of the first tasks is to locate your loved one’s will. The will typically names an executor who is responsible for managing the deceased’s estate. If you’re the executor, you’ll need to:

1. File the will with the probate court.

2. Inventory the estate’s assets and debts.

3. Distribute property according to the will’s instructions.

If there is no will, the estate will be handled according to state intestacy laws.

Notify Key Organizations

Inform relevant institutions about the death, including:

• Banks and financial institutions

• Social Security Administration (to stop benefits and inquire about survivor benefits)

• Insurance companies

• Employers (to handle final wages or benefits)

• Credit card companies

It’s important to do this promptly to prevent unauthorized use of accounts.

Pay Outstanding Bills and Debts

Gather all bills and financial statements to determine what payments are due. The estate is responsible for settling debts before distributing assets to heirs. Work with an attorney or financial advisor if needed.

Cancel or Transfer Accounts

Close or transfer accounts and subscriptions, such as:

• Utility bills

• Phone and internet services

• Streaming platforms

• Gym memberships

For ongoing accounts that you’re transferring, update the ownership and billing details.

Protect Against Identity Theft

Identity theft can occur even after someone has passed away. Take steps to safeguard your loved one’s personal information by:

• Notifying credit bureaus (Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion) of the death.

• Monitoring accounts for any unusual activity.

• Shredding sensitive documents no longer needed.

You can also request a credit freeze to prevent new accounts from being opened in their name.

Manage Property and Assets

Real Estate

If your loved one owned property, decide whether to sell, rent, or transfer ownership. Consult an attorney to understand the legal requirements for transferring deeds or handling outstanding mortgages.

Personal Belongings

Sorting through personal belongings can be an emotional process. Take your time, and consider involving family members to decide how to distribute or donate items. Create an inventory list to keep track of valuables.

Financial Investments

Contact financial advisors or brokers to address investments such as stocks, bonds, or retirement accounts. These assets may require additional documentation, such as the death certificate or proof of executor status.

Emotional and Practical Support

Seek Emotional Support

Grieving is a deeply personal process, and it’s important to give yourself time to heal. Consider reaching out to:

• Friends and family for emotional support.

• Grief counselors or therapists for professional guidance.

• Support groups for individuals experiencing similar losses.

Take Care of Yourself

During this time, it’s easy to neglect your own well-being. Make an effort to:

• Eat healthy meals.

• Get regular sleep.

• Engage in activities that bring you comfort or joy.

Settle Loose Ends

Grief can make it challenging to address all responsibilities at once. Create a checklist to keep track of tasks you’ve completed and those still pending. This can help you stay organized and ensure nothing is overlooked.

Consult Professionals

Handling the legal, financial, and emotional aspects of someone’s passing can be overwhelming. Don’t hesitate to seek help from professionals, such as:

• Estate attorneys for legal guidance

• Financial planners for managing assets and debts

• Tax advisors to handle any tax obligations related to the estate

Reflect and Honor Their Legacy

As you navigate the practicalities, take time to celebrate and remember your loved one’s life. This might include:

• Creating a scrapbook or photo album

• Establishing a charitable fund in their name

• Hosting a gathering to share memories

These acts can help bring closure and keep their memory alive.

Conclusion

The passing of a loved one is an emotionally challenging time, but understanding the necessary steps can provide clarity and direction. From notifying family and securing the death certificate to safeguarding their legacy and managing their affairs, each task is an important part of honoring their life. While it may feel overwhelming, remember that support is available—from friends, family, and professionals—to help you through this journey.