What To Do When Someone Dies: A Comprehensive Guide

Things to Do Immediately After Someone Dies

The immediate aftermath is a time of confusion and distress. Some important tasks must be handled right away to protect the deceased's affairs and begin the grieving process.

Legal Pronouncement of Death

First, a death must be legally pronounced. If someone dies at home and it was expected, a personal physician or hospice staff can make the pronouncement. If not, call emergency services (911 in the U.S.) and the body will be taken to a hospital for confirmation.

Key points:

• The pronouncement form is NOT the death certificate but is required to obtain one.
• Request multiple certified copies of the death certificate (10+ recommended) — many institutions will require them.

Notify Family and Friends

Inform close family members and friends as soon as possible. Deliver the news with sensitivity — in person or by phone when you can. A later obituary can inform a broader audience.

Who to notify first:

• Immediate family
• Close friends
• Workplace of the deceased
• Religious communities and clubs

Check for Funeral Plans and Preferences

Look for any pre-arranged funeral plans, advance directives, or notes that indicate the deceased's wishes. Searching their documents, email, or asking close contacts can reveal preferences that simplify planning.

Planning the Funeral or Cremation Service

Select a funeral home or director that aligns with the family's preferences and budget. Funeral homes manage logistics but expect to discuss costs and the level of control you want to retain.

Funeral Planning Checklist

• Confirm burial vs. cremation preference.
• Decide on venue, date, and time.
• Choose readings, music, and speakers (e.g., eulogy).
• Arrange for burial plot, headstone, or urn handling.
• Check for veteran or fraternal honors if applicable.

Organ or Body Donation

If the deceased wished to donate organs or their body, notify the appropriate organ procurement organization immediately. Timely action is critical to preserve viability.

• Verify donor registration and any paperwork.
• Contact the local donation organization without delay.
• Follow their instructions regarding next steps and transport.

Practical Matters that Require Attention

Several practical tasks help protect the deceased's property and financial affairs.

Secure the Property & Forward the Mail

Secure the home, forward mail, and inventory valuables. Change locks if necessary and arrange for basic maintenance to avoid the appearance of vacancy.

Notify Financial Institutions

Contact banks, credit card companies, insurers, mortgage lenders, loan providers, investment firms, and pension plans. Have the death certificate, account numbers, and proof of your relationship handy.

Cancel Subscriptions and Services

Contact service providers (utilities, phone, streaming, memberships) to cancel or transfer accounts. A death certificate is usually required for cancellations or transfers.

Taking Care of the Estate & Legal Matters after Death

Finding the will and contacting the named executor starts the legal process of administering the estate.

Obtain Certified Copies of the Death Certificate

Request certified copies from the funeral home or local vital records office. Aim for at least 10 certified copies to streamline dealing with institutions.

Notify Necessary Institutions

• Social Security Administration (report death and ask about survivor benefits)
• Life insurance companies (begin claims)
• Banks (close or transfer accounts)
• Credit agencies (report death to prevent identity theft)
• Immigration authorities (if applicable)

Assess the Estate

Inventory assets such as jewelry, vehicles, real estate, bank and investment accounts, insurance policies, antiques, artwork, and collectibles. Consider professional appraisals for high-value items.

Find the Executor of the Will

Contact the executor named in the will. The executor manages assets, pays debts, and distributes the estate. Offer assistance — the process can be lengthy and complex.

Transporting a Body Across Borders

If repatriation or interstate transport is required, use a funeral home experienced with cross-border arrangements. They will handle permits, death certificates, embalming/refrigeration, and transport logistics.

Things to Do If There Is No Will

When someone dies intestate (without a will), state laws decide how the estate is distributed.

Intestate Succession

Intestate succession laws typically prioritize the surviving spouse and children, then parents, siblings, and more distant relatives. The probate court will appoint an administrator to manage the estate if necessary.

Appointing an Administrator

File a petition with the probate court to appoint an administrator if no executor is named. The administrator's duties mirror those of an executor: identify assets, pay debts and taxes, and distribute assets per state law.

Distribution of Assets Without a Will

The administrator will follow intestacy rules to transfer ownership of assets such as real estate and bank accounts, often requiring court approval and specific filings.

Remembering and Celebrating the Life of the Deceased

Honoring the deceased's legacy — through stories, traditions, donations, or memorial events — is an essential part of grieving. Share memories, celebrate their life, and find ways to keep their values and spirit alive.

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Quick Checklist (Printable)

Task	Notes
Legal pronouncement	Physician, hospice, or 911 (if unexpected)
Obtain death certificates	Request 10+ certified copies
Notify family & friends	Immediate family first; obituary later
Contact funeral home	Confirm burial vs cremation & logistics
Secure property & mail	Forward mail, change locks if needed
Notify institutions	SSA, banks, insurers, credit agencies
Find will & executor	Locate documents and contact executor

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This guide provides general information and is not legal advice. For complex estates or state-specific questions, consult a probate attorney or qualified professional.