What to Do When Someone Dies: A Complete Checklist

If you're reading this right now, there's a good chance you've recently lost someone you love. We're deeply sorry for your loss. In the fog of grief, the sheer number of practical tasks that need to be handled can feel overwhelming and even cruel. You shouldn't have to figure all of this out while your heart is breaking — but unfortunately, many of these steps are time-sensitive.

This guide is designed to be the steady, compassionate voice that walks you through what to do when someone dies, step by step. We've organized everything into a clear, time-based checklist so you can focus on just what needs to happen right now, today, or this week — without worrying about the rest until you're ready.

Take a breath. You don't have to do everything at once, and you don't have to do it alone.

Make this easier on yourself. Our Funeral Planning Toolkit ($19) includes a complete interactive checklist that you can check off as you go, plus budget tracking and timeline planning. It's the digital, printable companion to this guide — designed so nothing falls through the cracks during the hardest days of your life.

Immediately After Death: What to Do in the First 24 Hours

The first hours after someone dies are a blur for most people. Try not to rush. Unless the death was unexpected and requires emergency services, there is usually no need to act within minutes. Here is what needs to happen in roughly the first 24 hours when a loved one passes away.

1. Get a legal pronouncement of death

If your loved one died in a hospital or nursing facility, staff will handle this. If the death occurred at home under hospice care, call the hospice nurse, who can make the pronouncement. If the death was unexpected or unattended, call 911. A medical professional must officially pronounce the death before anything else can proceed. In most cases, this also involves a doctor signing the death certificate.

2. Contact the immediate family

Reach out to the closest family members — spouse, children, parents, and siblings — first. If you're not emotionally up for making multiple calls, ask one trusted person to help spread the word. It's perfectly okay to keep the circle small in these first hours and notify extended family and friends a bit later.

3. Arrange care for dependents and pets

If the deceased was the primary caretaker for children, elderly family members, or pets, make sure someone steps in immediately. This is easy to overlook in the shock of loss, but dependents need continuity of care. Ask a family member, neighbor, or close friend to help.

4. Secure the deceased's home and property

If the person lived alone, make sure their home is locked and secure. Turn off appliances, check that perishable items are dealt with, and gather any valuables. If the death occurred at home, you may want a trusted person present at the property. This step helps prevent issues with theft or property damage in the days ahead.

5. Locate important documents

Begin looking for the will, trust documents, life insurance policies, and any pre-arranged funeral plans. Check a home safe, filing cabinet, or desk. If the deceased used a lawyer, they may have copies as well. Having these documents early will save significant time and stress over the coming days. We've included a complete list of documents you'll need further in this guide.

6. Contact a funeral home

If the deceased had pre-arranged funeral plans, contact that specific funeral home. Otherwise, you'll need to choose one. The funeral home will arrange to transport the body from the hospital, home, or medical examiner's office. Don't feel pressured to make decisions about the service right away — the funeral director simply needs to know where to bring your loved one.

7. Decide about organ or tissue donation

If your loved one was a registered organ donor or expressed wishes about donation, this must be addressed quickly. The hospital or hospice team can connect you with the local organ procurement organization. Time is critical for organ donation, so this is one decision that truly cannot wait.

8. Consider an autopsy (if applicable)

In cases of unexpected or suspicious death, the coroner or medical examiner may require an autopsy. In other situations, the family may request one. If you have concerns about the cause of death, speak with the attending physician or medical examiner promptly. Once the body has been embalmed or cremated, an autopsy is no longer possible.

9. Begin a contact log

Start writing down the names and numbers of everyone you speak with — from the hospital, funeral home, insurance companies, and government agencies. In the days ahead, you'll be making dozens of calls, and having a single place to track conversations will be invaluable. Note the date, who you spoke with, and what was discussed.

10. Take care of yourself

This isn't just a nice sentiment — it's a practical necessity. Eat something, drink water, and try to rest even if sleep feels impossible. You have a marathon of decisions ahead, and your body and mind need fuel. Accept help when it's offered. Let someone bring you a meal. You cannot pour from an empty cup.

First Few Days After Death: Days 1–3 Checklist

Once the immediate shock begins to settle — even slightly — there are important steps to take in the first few days after someone dies. This is when funeral planning begins in earnest, and when you'll start navigating the practical and legal side of loss.

1. Meet with the funeral director

Schedule a meeting with the funeral home to discuss arrangements. They will walk you through your options, including burial versus cremation, type of service, casket or urn selection, and timing. Bring a trusted friend or family member for support — and to help you remember details later. Don't hesitate to ask about pricing for every item; funeral homes are required by law (the FTC Funeral Rule) to provide itemized price lists.

2. Plan the funeral or memorial service

Decide on the type of service that best honors your loved one. Will it be a traditional funeral, a celebration of life, a graveside service, or something else entirely? Consider their wishes, religious or cultural traditions, and what feels right for your family. If you need inspiration, our guide on how to personalize a funeral service can help you create something truly meaningful.

3. Choose music and readings for the service

Select songs, hymns, poems, or readings that reflect the personality and life of the person you've lost. Music can be one of the most powerful and healing parts of a service. If you're not sure where to start, browse our guide on celebration songs and the order of service for celebrating life for thoughtful suggestions and planning tips.

4. Order certified copies of the death certificate

You will need multiple certified copies of the death certificate — typically 10 to 15. The funeral home usually handles ordering these from the vital records office. Each copy costs a small fee, but having extras saves you from delays later. Banks, insurance companies, the Social Security Administration, and many other institutions require original certified copies, not photocopies.

5. Write and submit the obituary

Draft an obituary for your local newspaper and any online platforms. Include the person's full name, age, date of death, surviving family members, and details about the funeral or memorial service. Many funeral homes will help you write and place the obituary. You can also post it on social media or memorial websites to reach a wider circle.

6. Notify the deceased's employer

Contact their employer's human resources department. Ask about any final paycheck, unused vacation pay, pension benefits, life insurance through work, and whether the company's employee assistance program offers bereavement support for the family. Also inquire about any personal belongings at the workplace that need to be collected.

7. Contact the life insurance company

If the deceased had a life insurance policy, call the insurance company to begin the claims process. You'll need the policy number and a certified copy of the death certificate. Life insurance claims can take several weeks to process, so starting early helps ensure funds are available when you need them for funeral costs and other expenses.

8. Notify Social Security

Report the death to the Social Security Administration by calling 1-800-772-1213. The funeral home may also report the death on your behalf. If the deceased was receiving Social Security benefits, those payments must stop. A surviving spouse or dependent children may be eligible for survivor benefits, so ask about this during your call.

9. Notify the bank and financial institutions

Contact the deceased's bank to report the death and inquire about joint accounts, beneficiary designations, and the process for accessing funds. You may need to present a death certificate and proof that you are the executor or next of kin. Do not withdraw money from individual accounts before the estate is properly handled — this can create legal complications.

10. Begin gathering financial records

Collect recent bank statements, tax returns, investment account information, mortgage documents, and records of debts or recurring payments. This will be critical for the executor of the estate and for ensuring bills continue to be paid during the transition period. Check email and physical mail for statements and bills.

First Week After Someone Dies: What to Handle

By the end of the first week, the funeral or memorial service will likely have taken place. While grief is still raw, some important administrative tasks need attention. Handle what you can, delegate what you can't, and remember that it's okay to ask for help.

1. Attend to the funeral or memorial service

Whether the service happens on day three or day seven, give yourself permission to simply be present in it. You don't have to host, organize, or hold everyone else together. Accept the support of your community. After the service, keep the guest book or sign-in sheet — it will be helpful later when writing thank-you notes and notifying people of estate matters.

2. Decide what to do with cremated remains (if applicable)

If your loved one was cremated, you may need to decide about the final resting place for their ashes. Options include scattering, keeping them in an urn at home, placing them in a columbarium, or dividing them among family members using keepsake urns. Our guide on ashes, keepsakes, and urns covers all of these options in detail to help you choose what feels right.

3. Contact the executor or estate attorney

If the deceased had a will, the named executor should begin the probate process. If there was no will, the court will appoint an administrator. Contact an estate attorney if the estate is complex or if there are disputes among family members. The executor has a legal duty to manage the estate, pay debts, and distribute assets according to the will or state law.

4. Redirect or hold mail

Visit the post office or go online at USPS.com to forward the deceased's mail to the executor or a trusted family member. This ensures you receive important documents — bills, account statements, legal notices, and tax forms — and prevents mail from piling up at an empty residence. You can also place a temporary hold if needed.

5. Notify health insurance and Medicare

Contact the deceased's health insurance provider to cancel coverage. If the deceased was on Medicare, the Social Security Administration typically notifies Medicare, but it's wise to confirm. If a surviving spouse or dependents were covered under the deceased's plan, ask about continuation options such as COBRA coverage. Don't cancel coverage prematurely if outstanding medical bills still need to be processed.

6. Cancel or transfer utilities and subscriptions

Review the deceased's recurring expenses: utilities (electric, gas, water, internet), streaming services, magazine subscriptions, gym memberships, meal delivery services, and any other auto-pay accounts. Cancel what's no longer needed and transfer any accounts that the household still requires. Check both credit card statements and bank statements for auto-payments you might miss.

7. Notify the Department of Motor Vehicles

Report the death to your state's DMV to cancel the deceased's driver's license and prevent identity theft. If the deceased owned vehicles, you'll need to transfer titles as part of the estate settlement process. Each state has its own procedures, so check your local DMV website or visit in person with a death certificate and proof of your authority.

8. Secure digital accounts and online presence

Review the deceased's digital footprint. This includes email accounts, social media profiles, online banking, cloud storage, and any websites or domains they owned. Some platforms (like Facebook and Google) have legacy or memorialization options. Change passwords where possible to prevent unauthorized access, and note any digital assets that may have financial value, such as cryptocurrency or online businesses.

9. File for survivor benefits

Beyond Social Security survivor benefits, check whether the deceased had pension benefits with survivor options, veterans benefits (burial benefits and survivor pensions through the VA), or union benefits. Each of these may require a separate application and a certified copy of the death certificate. Starting these processes early prevents delays in receiving financial support you're entitled to.

10. Send thank-you notes

While this may feel like the last thing you want to do, sending brief notes or cards to those who attended the service, sent flowers, brought food, or offered other support is a meaningful gesture. It doesn't need to be elaborate — a few sincere sentences are enough. If you're not up for it this week, it's entirely acceptable to send them within the first month.

First Month Checklist: After Someone Passes Away

The first month after a death is when the world expects you to "get back to normal" — but grief doesn't work on anyone else's schedule. Be patient with yourself. At the same time, there are practical matters that benefit from attention during this period.

1. Review and update your own estate plan

The death of a spouse, parent, or close family member often changes your own estate plans. Review your will, power of attorney, healthcare directive, and beneficiary designations on retirement accounts and life insurance policies. If the deceased was your named beneficiary or executor, you'll need to update those documents.

2. File life insurance claims (if not already done)

If you haven't already initiated the life insurance claim, do so now. Gather the policy, a certified death certificate, and the claim forms from the insurance company. Some policies pay out within a few weeks; others may take longer, especially if the death occurred within the contestability period (usually the first two years of the policy).

3. Consult with a tax professional

A death triggers several tax considerations. The deceased's final income tax return must be filed, and the estate may owe taxes depending on its size. A tax professional can advise you on filing deadlines, deductions related to medical and funeral expenses, and any estate or inheritance tax obligations in your state. This is especially important if the estate includes real estate, investments, or a business.

4. Pay outstanding debts and bills

Work with the executor or estate attorney to identify and pay the deceased's outstanding debts, including medical bills, credit cards, and loans. Note that surviving family members are generally not personally responsible for the deceased's individual debts unless they co-signed. Debts are paid from the estate. Do not let creditors pressure you into paying from your own funds.

5. Begin the probate process

If the estate requires probate, the executor should file the will with the local probate court. Probate is the legal process through which the court validates the will and authorizes the executor to distribute assets. The timeline varies by state and complexity, ranging from a few months to over a year. An estate attorney can guide you through the specific requirements in your jurisdiction.

6. Notify credit bureaus

Report the death to the three major credit bureaus — Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion — to place a deceased alert on the credit file. This helps prevent identity theft, which unfortunately is a real risk after someone dies. You'll need to provide a certified death certificate. Also consider placing a credit freeze for additional protection.

7. Cancel or transfer the deceased's identification

In addition to the driver's license, cancel the deceased's passport by mailing it to the U.S. Department of State with a death certificate and a cover letter. Cancel voter registration by contacting your local election office. If the deceased held any professional licenses, notify the issuing bodies.

8. Handle property and real estate matters

If the deceased owned property, the executor will need to manage it during probate. This may include paying the mortgage, maintaining insurance, handling property taxes, and deciding whether to sell or transfer the property. If the deceased rented, review the lease agreement and notify the landlord. Some leases have early termination provisions in the event of death.

9. Consider grief counseling or support

By the end of the first month, the initial wave of community support often fades, and the reality of the loss settles in more deeply. This is a very natural — and very difficult — time. Professional grief counseling, support groups, or even online communities can offer meaningful help. Our article on the benefits of grief counseling and when to seek help covers what to look for and how to decide if it's right for you.

10. Organize and store important documents

Create a dedicated file — physical or digital — for all documents related to the death and estate. Include the death certificate, funeral receipts, insurance correspondence, probate filings, financial account statements, and any legal documents. Keeping everything organized in one place will save time and reduce stress as you continue to work through the estate settlement process.

Within 6 Months of a Death: Longer-Term Steps

Some tasks related to what to do after someone dies don't have urgent deadlines but still need to be completed within the first six months to a year. These longer-term items often involve financial settlement, legal closure, and the emotional work of moving forward.

1. File the deceased's final tax return

The deceased's final federal income tax return is due on the normal filing date (April 15) for the year in which they died. If the deceased was married and filing jointly, the surviving spouse can still file a joint return for that year. The executor is responsible for filing, and a tax professional can help ensure accuracy and identify any refunds or credits the estate is entitled to.

2. Distribute estate assets

Once debts, taxes, and expenses have been paid, the executor can distribute remaining assets to beneficiaries as outlined in the will. If there is no will, state intestacy laws determine how assets are divided. This process should be done carefully, with proper documentation and, ideally, with the guidance of an estate attorney to avoid disputes or legal issues.

3. Close out remaining financial accounts

After all estate obligations have been met, close any remaining bank accounts, investment accounts, and credit cards that were in the deceased's name only. Transfer any remaining balances to the estate account for final distribution. Keep records of all account closures for your files.

4. Settle ongoing insurance matters

Follow up on any outstanding insurance claims — homeowner's, auto, health, or liability. Cancel policies that are no longer needed and ensure that any refunds for prepaid premiums are directed to the estate. If the deceased's auto or homeowner's insurance covered other family members, make arrangements for new policies as needed.

5. Handle personal belongings and sentimental items

Sorting through a loved one's personal belongings is one of the most emotionally challenging tasks, and there's no rush. When you're ready, go through clothing, personal items, photographs, and household goods. Divide sentimental items among family members, donate to charity, or arrange an estate sale for remaining items. Take your time. There is no deadline on grief.

6. Close the estate

Once all debts are paid, assets distributed, and tax returns filed, the executor can petition the probate court to formally close the estate. This involves filing a final accounting that shows all income, expenses, and distributions. Once the court approves, the executor is released from their duties. This final step brings legal closure to the process.

7. Continue to care for yourself

Six months after a loss, many people find that grief hasn't diminished — it has simply changed shape. Anniversaries, holidays, and quiet moments can bring fresh waves of sadness. This is normal. Continue to lean on your support network, consider professional counseling if you haven't already, and honor your loved one's memory in ways that bring you comfort. Grief is not a problem to solve; it's a reflection of love.

Documents You'll Need When Someone Dies

Having the right paperwork gathered and organized early makes every other step significantly easier. Here is a comprehensive list of the documents you'll need after a death to handle legal, financial, and administrative tasks.

• Certified death certificates (10–15 copies) — Required by nearly every institution you'll contact
• Last will and testament — Directs how assets should be distributed and names the executor
• Trust documents — If the deceased created a living trust or other trust arrangement
• Life insurance policies — Needed to file claims; check for policies through employers as well
• Social Security card — Or at minimum, the Social Security number
• Birth certificate — May be required for certain benefit claims
• Marriage certificate — Needed for spousal benefit claims and some account transfers
• Divorce decree (if applicable) — May affect estate distribution and benefit eligibility
• Military discharge papers (DD-214) — Required for veterans burial benefits and survivor pensions
• Property deeds and vehicle titles — Needed for transferring ownership of real estate and vehicles
• Recent tax returns (2–3 years) — Essential for filing the final return and settling the estate
• Bank and investment account statements — To identify all financial assets
• Mortgage and loan documents — To understand outstanding debts and obligations
• Health insurance cards and policy information — For processing final medical claims
• Retirement and pension account information — 401(k), IRA, and pension plan details
• Business ownership documents (if applicable) — Partnership agreements, articles of incorporation
• Pre-arranged funeral plan documents — If the deceased made advance arrangements
• Power of attorney and healthcare directive — These expire at death but may contain useful information about the deceased's wishes
• Passwords and digital account information — For email, banking, social media, and other online accounts

Who to Notify When Someone Dies: A Complete List

One of the most time-consuming tasks after a death is notifying all the relevant people, organizations, and agencies. Use this list to make sure you don't miss anyone. Not every item will apply to every situation — check off the ones that are relevant to your loved one's circumstances.

Family and Personal Contacts

• Immediate family members (spouse, children, parents, siblings)
• Extended family members
• Close friends and neighbors
• Employer and coworkers
• Religious or spiritual community leader (pastor, rabbi, imam, etc.)
• Family attorney
• Family doctor or primary care physician

Government Agencies

• Social Security Administration (1-800-772-1213)
• Department of Motor Vehicles (state-specific)
• U.S. Passport Agency (if passport needs to be canceled)
• Voter registration office
• Veterans Affairs (if the deceased was a veteran)
• Post office (for mail forwarding)
• County tax assessor (if property is owned)

Financial Institutions

• Banks and credit unions (checking, savings, CDs)
• Investment and brokerage firms
• Retirement account administrators (401k, IRA, pension)
• Life insurance companies
• Health insurance provider
• Homeowner's or renter's insurance
• Auto insurance
• Mortgage lender
• Credit card companies
• Loan servicers (student loans, personal loans, auto loans)
• Financial advisor or accountant

Credit Bureaus

• Equifax (1-800-685-1111)
• Experian (1-888-397-3742)
• TransUnion (1-800-916-8800)

Utilities and Service Providers

• Electric company
• Gas company
• Water and sewer
• Internet and cable/satellite TV
• Phone company (landline and mobile)
• Trash collection
• Home security company

Subscriptions and Memberships

• Streaming services (Netflix, Spotify, etc.)
• Newspaper and magazine subscriptions
• Gym or club memberships
• Professional associations or unions
• Loyalty programs and frequent flyer accounts
• Online subscriptions and recurring payments
• Charitable donation commitments

Tips for Managing Everything When a Loved One Dies

Even with a complete checklist, managing everything after a death is exhausting. Here are a few practical tips that can help you stay afloat during this difficult period.

Delegate when possible

You do not have to do everything yourself. Assign specific tasks to trusted family members or friends. One person can handle phone calls to financial institutions. Another can manage the meal train or coordinate with the funeral home. People genuinely want to help — give them something specific to do.

Keep a centralized notebook or digital file

Write everything down in one place: phone numbers, reference numbers, claim numbers, names of people you've spoken with, and what was discussed. Grief affects memory and concentration more than most people realize. A single, centralized log will prevent you from losing track of important details.

Don't make major financial decisions immediately

Financial advisors consistently recommend waiting at least six months to a year before making significant financial decisions after a major loss. This includes selling a home, making large investments, lending money, or changing careers. Grief clouds judgment, and decisions made in the acute phase of loss are more likely to be regretted later.

Be cautious with unsolicited offers

Unfortunately, scammers sometimes target the recently bereaved. Be wary of unsolicited calls about debts the deceased allegedly owed, unfamiliar "charities" requesting donations in the deceased's name, or anyone pressuring you to make quick financial decisions. Verify everything independently before sharing personal information or making payments.

Accept that grief and paperwork will coexist

There will be moments when you're filling out a form and tears start falling. There will be days when you can't face another phone call. This is all normal. Do what you can, when you can. The administrative side of death is a marathon, not a sprint, and it's okay to take breaks.

Frequently Asked Questions About What to Do When Someone Dies

How many death certificates do I need to order?

Most experts recommend ordering between 10 and 15 certified copies of the death certificate. Each financial institution, insurance company, and government agency will typically require an original certified copy — photocopies are usually not accepted. It's less expensive and far more convenient to order extra copies upfront through the funeral home or your state's vital records office than to request additional copies later. If the deceased had a large number of financial accounts, insurance policies, or property holdings, consider ordering even more.

Who is responsible for paying the deceased's debts?

In most cases, the deceased's estate — not surviving family members — is responsible for paying outstanding debts. The executor uses estate assets to settle debts before distributing anything to beneficiaries. There are exceptions: if you co-signed a loan, are a joint account holder, are a surviving spouse in a community property state, or are otherwise legally obligated, you may bear responsibility. Do not let debt collectors pressure you into paying from your personal funds without first consulting an attorney. Federal and state laws protect consumers from deceptive debt collection practices.

How long does probate take?

The probate timeline varies significantly depending on the size and complexity of the estate, whether the will is contested, and the specific requirements of your state. Simple estates may clear probate in three to six months. More complex estates — particularly those involving real estate in multiple states, business ownership, or family disputes — can take a year or longer. Some assets, such as jointly held property, payable-on-death accounts, and assets in a living trust, bypass probate entirely. An estate attorney can give you a realistic timeline based on your specific situation.

Do I need a lawyer to settle an estate?

While it's not legally required in most states, hiring an estate attorney is strongly recommended for all but the simplest estates. An attorney can help you navigate probate, ensure legal requirements are met, handle creditor claims, prepare tax filings, and resolve disputes among beneficiaries. If the estate is very small and straightforward — perhaps only a bank account and personal belongings with clearly named beneficiaries — you may be able to handle it yourself. Many states also offer simplified probate procedures for small estates below a certain value threshold.

When should I seek grief counseling after a loss?

There is no wrong time to seek grief counseling — you don't have to wait until you're in crisis. Some people find it helpful immediately after the loss, while others seek support weeks or months later when the initial busyness fades and the full weight of grief settles in. Consider reaching out to a professional if you feel unable to function in daily life, experience persistent feelings of hopelessness, withdraw from people and activities you once enjoyed, or find that grief is intensifying rather than gradually softening over time. Support groups, individual therapy, and even online counseling can all be beneficial. You can learn more in our dedicated guide on the benefits of grief counseling and when to seek help.

Losing someone you love is one of the hardest experiences a person can go through. The tasks on this checklist won't lessen the grief — but completing them, one at a time, can give you a small sense of control during a time when everything feels uncertain. Be gentle with yourself. Ask for help. And know that there's no right way to grieve — there's only your way.

If you found this guide helpful, consider bookmarking it or sharing it with someone else who may be navigating a loss. And if you'd like a structured, interactive tool to walk you through every step, our Funeral Planning Toolkit is here whenever you need it.