Everything Your Family Needs to Know—From First Steps to Grief Resources to Government Requirements
The first hours after someone passes away are confusing and overwhelming. This guide walks you through every step, so you know exactly what to do.
If the death was unexpected: Call 911 immediately. Do NOT move the body.
If the death was expected at home: Call the hospice nurse (if applicable) or the person's doctor. Follow their instructions.
If in a hospital or nursing home: Staff will handle initial steps. They will contact the family and provide next steps.
Call immediate family members (spouse, children, parents). Keep calls brief and factual. You don't need to explain details—just let them know what happened and where the body is.
A funeral director will help arrange everything. Call the funeral home the person preferred, or ask the hospital/nursing home for a recommendation.
What to tell them: Your name, the deceased person's full name, date of death, and where the body currently is.
The funeral director will handle transporting the body and guide you through next steps.
The funeral director will ask for:
Look for these in a safe, desk drawer, or with an attorney/accountant.
If the deceased had burial insurance or funeral insurance, now is the time to use it.
Look for insurance documents in a safe, desk, or with the person's important papers. The policy will have a policy number and company name.
Call the insurance company's claims department. Have ready:
The insurance company will ask for:
Once approved, the death benefit (typically $5,000-$25,000) will be sent to the designated beneficiary, usually within 5-10 business days.
After someone passes, you'll need to notify various government agencies. Here's what to do:
Why: To stop any benefit payments and process survivor benefits if applicable.
How: Call 1-800-772-1213 or visit your local Social Security office.
What to have: Deceased's Social Security number, birth date, and death certificate.
Why: To stop billing and process any pending claims.
How: Call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227).
Why: To cancel driver's license and vehicle registration.
How: Visit your state DMV office or website.
Why: Veterans may qualify for burial benefits and survivor benefits.
How: Call the VA at 1-800-827-1000 or visit the VA website.
What to have: Discharge papers (DD-214) and death certificate.
Why: To file final tax return and settle any tax obligations.
How: Contact a CPA or tax professional, or call IRS at 1-800-829-1040.
Why: To claim life insurance, burial insurance, and homeowner's insurance (if applicable).
How: Call the insurance company's claims department.
Deadlines: Most insurance claims must be filed within 30-60 days of death.
Call all banks where the person had accounts (checking, savings, CDs). Tell them about the death and ask about account balances and access.
You'll likely need to provide a death certificate and proof of your identity.
Call all credit card companies and notify them of the death. Ask about any outstanding balances. The estate may need to pay these.
If the person had a will or trust, locate it and review its contents. If there's an executor or trustee named, contact them immediately.
The executor/trustee will manage the distribution of assets and settle debts.
Depending on the estate size and whether there's a will, the estate may need to go through probate. Consult with an attorney about this process.
The funeral home will provide official death certificates. You'll need multiple copies (typically 10-15) for:
Order extra copies—they're inexpensive now but difficult to get later.
Loss is one of life's most difficult experiences. You don't have to handle it alone.
A grief counselor or therapist can help you process emotions. Ask your doctor for referrals or contact:
Many communities offer grief support groups through hospitals, churches, and community centers. Talking with others who've experienced loss can be healing.
We know this is difficult information, but here's the reality: families who've planned ahead handle these tasks much more smoothly.
If your loved one had burial insurance, they already protected you from the financial burden. If they had documented wishes, you know exactly what they wanted.
The best thing you can do now: Have this conversation with YOUR family. Let them know your wishes. Use our pre-planning guide and consider burial insurance to protect them like your loved one tried to protect you.
If your family has questions about burial insurance claims or needs support during this difficult time, we're here for you.
Available 24/7: (503) 333-1788