What to Do When a Loved One Dies

On February 25, 2026 By newsroom Topic: Saving And Investing Money

Losing a loved one is a difficult time, and knowing what steps to take can help ease the burden. Here's a comprehensive guide to navigate this challenging process.

Immediate Steps

Get a Legal Pronouncement of Death
- At Home Under Hospice Care: Call the hospice nurse to declare death and arrange transport.
- Unexpected Death at Home: Call 911. Have a do-not-resuscitate (DNR) document if available to avoid emergency procedures.

Arrange for Body Transportation
- Contact a mortuary or crematorium. Request pricing information by phone.

Notify the Doctor or County Coroner

Inform Close Family and Friends
- Delegate this task to reduce your burden.

Take Care of Dependents and Pets

Contact the Person’s Employer
- Ask about benefits, any final pay, and life insurance policies.

Within a Few Days After Death

Plan Funeral or Memorial Services
- Check for prepaid plans or instructions in documents. Prepare an obituary.

Contact Relevant Groups
- Military organizations, fraternal, or religious groups may offer burial benefits or assistance.

Secure the Deceased’s Home
- Ask someone to monitor the home, collect mail, water plants, and maintain heat to prevent damage in winter.

Within 10 Days After Death

Obtain Death Certificates
- Multiple copies are needed for financial institutions, government agencies, and insurers.

Submit the Will for Probate
- File with the appropriate city or county office according to state laws.

Open an Estate Bank Account
- If required, the executor should set up an account to manage the estate.

Notify Key Contacts
- Trust and Estate Attorney: For probate and asset transfer.
- Police: Request checks on a vacant home.
- Accountant: Determine tax filing needs.
- Banks: Locate accounts and safe deposit boxes.
- Life Insurance Agent: File claims.
- Social Security and Veterans Affairs: Stop payments and inquire about survivor benefits.
- Utility Companies and Postal Service: Stop or transfer services, forward mail, and manage subscriptions.
- DMV and IRS: Prevent identity theft.
- Social Media Platforms: Memorialize or remove accounts.

Planning Ahead

For elderly loved ones, ensure preparedness:
- Document Location: Know where to find the will, Social Security info, insurance policies, and financial records.
- Funeral Preferences: Discuss burial or cremation wishes.
- Advance Directives: Ensure living wills and healthcare proxies are completed and shared.
- DNR Orders: Arrange if desired.
- End-of-Life Care: Understand options like hospice or palliative care and verify insurance coverage.

Special Considerations During COVID-19

Follow CDC guidelines for virtual funerals and memorials.
Use bereavement resources offered by hospices or mental health organizations for support.
Review CDC's grief and stress coping strategies here.

Take each step one at a time, and don’t hesitate to seek support from trusted friends, family, or professionals.