Immediately After the Passing
When a loved one passes away, the first steps are often the hardest. You may need to take specific actions promptly depending on where the death occurs and the circumstances.
Notify Emergency Services or Hospice Care
If the death happens unexpectedly at home, call 911 or your local emergency number. Emergency responders can guide you through the next steps. If your loved one was under hospice care, contact the hospice provider. They are experienced in these situations and can assist you with the necessary procedures.
Obtain a Pronouncement of Death
In many cases, a medical professional or hospice nurse will need to officially declare the death. This is a necessary step before making arrangements with a funeral home or coordinating with the coroner, if required.
Contact Close Family and Friends
Informing immediate family and close friends is a difficult and important task. However, you don’t have to do this alone. You can assign someone you trust to help spread the news and provide support during this time. Read more about our tips on how to contact loved ones after someone has passed.
Secure the Home, Belongings, and Pets
If your loved one lived alone, ensure their home is locked and secure. You might also need to make arrangements for pets or plants.
Within the First 24-48 Hours
Once the initial steps are taken, you can focus on other immediate tasks.
Choose a Funeral Home
If your loved one prearranged services with a funeral home, contact them to carry out the next steps in honoring their arrangements. If not, you may need to select a funeral home. Funeral directors can guide you through transportation of the body, burial or cremation options, and planning services.
Locate Important Documents
Begin gathering key documents that might be needed in the coming days, such as:
- The will or estate plan
- Insurance policies
- Birth certificate or ID
- Marriage or divorce certificates
- Prepaid funeral arrangements
Notify Religious or Cultural Leaders
If your loved one’s faith or cultural traditions involve specific rites, contact the appropriate leaders. They can guide you on customs or ceremonies that honor your loved one’s beliefs.
Inform the Workplace
If your loved one was employed, inform their workplace. This helps initiate processes like final paychecks, benefits, or life insurance claims. Similarly, if you’re employed, notify your employer and discuss bereavement leave options.
Arrange Care for Dependents
If your loved one cared for children or other dependents, ensure their immediate needs are met. This might mean reaching out to extended family, neighbors, or close friends.
Within the First Month
As you adjust to this new reality, there are additional steps to take to manage the legal and financial aspects of your loved one’s estate.
Meet with an Attorney
If your loved one had a will or estate planning documents, meet with an attorney to begin the probate process (if required). The attorney can guide you through legal procedures, help clarify the distribution of assets, and address any potential disputes.
Additionally, you will need to ensure an executor is in place to manage the estate. If one has already been designated in the will, the attorney will help formalize their role. If there is no will or executor, the attorney can assist in appointing one through the probate court. This individual will take on responsibilities such as paying outstanding debts, managing assets, and overseeing the distribution of inheritance.
Manage Finances
Notify credit bureaus of your loved one’s passing to prevent identity theft. Begin settling debts and closing accounts that are no longer needed. Keep track of all transactions to ensure transparency.
File Life Insurance Claims
Contact insurance providers to file claims. You’ll need to submit a death certificate and any other requested documentation.
Cancel Unnecessary Services
Review your loved one’s subscriptions, memberships, and utilities. Cancel services that are no longer needed to avoid recurring charges.
In the Following Months
Grief doesn’t have a timeline, and it’s important to allow yourself space to heal. At the same time, there are some ongoing tasks to complete.
File Final Tax Returns
Work with a tax advisor to file any outstanding income or estate tax returns for your loved one. They can guide you through what is required.
Distribute Inheritance
Once the legalities are sorted, distribute assets according to the will or estate plan. If your loved one did not leave a will, follow the legal guidelines in your region.
Handle Personal Belongings
Sorting through your loved one’s belongings can be emotionally challenging. Take your time and consider involving family or friends. Donate or keep items in a way that feels respectful and meaningful.
Take Care of Yourself
Grieving is a deeply personal journey, and no two paths are the same. But sometimes, leaning on others can make it a little easier. Don’t hesitate to reach out to friends, family, or professional counselors if you feel the need.
Local support groups or grief counseling services can offer a comforting space where you can share your feelings openly. If that feels overwhelming, online forums or helplines can connect you with understanding people.
You might also find solace in reading books or articles on grief, helping you make sense of your emotions. And don’t forget to take care of your physical wellbeing—eat nourishing meals, get plenty of rest, and give yourself the time and grace to heal.
Thoughtful Goodbyes with Hollywood Forever
Losing someone we love is one of life’s most difficult experiences, and managing practical matters can feel overwhelming. By breaking tasks into manageable steps and seeking support when needed, you can navigate this time with care and compassion for yourself and those around you.
During such challenging times, Hollywood Forever Cemetery and Funeral Home is here to ease the burden of arrangements. As a full-service funeral home and cemetery, we offer a range of services, including traditional burial, cremation, and memorial services, all within our serene and historic grounds.
By entrusting Hollywood Forever with the details, you can find solace in knowing that every aspect is handled with dignity and respect, giving you one less thing to worry about during this difficult time.
