What to Do When Someone Dies: A Complete Step-by-Step Guide
A compassionate, practical guide covering everything you need to handle in the days, weeks, and months after losing a loved one.
When someone you love dies, it can feel impossible to think clearly — let alone figure out what needs to happen next. This guide walks you through each step, from the first hours to the months that follow, so you never have to wonder what comes next.
The First 24 Hours
The immediate aftermath is overwhelming. Focus on these essentials first.
1. Get the official pronouncement of death
If the death occurs at home, call 911 or the decedent's physician. A medical professional must officially pronounce the death before anything else can proceed.
If the death occurs in a hospital or care facility, staff will handle this step.
2. Contact a funeral home
You do not need to decide everything immediately. A funeral home can guide you through the process of transporting and caring for your loved one. If the deceased had pre-arranged funeral plans, contact that provider.
3. Notify immediate family
Reach out to close family members and anyone who should know right away. You do not need to notify everyone today — this can happen over the coming days.
The First Week
Once the immediate shock begins to settle, these steps should be addressed.
4. Obtain death certificates
Request at least 10 certified copies of the death certificate from the funeral home or your county vital records office. You will need them for:
- Insurance claims
- Bank and financial accounts
- Government agencies (Social Security, VA)
- Probate court filings
- Property title transfers
5. Notify the employer
If the deceased was employed, contact their employer to ask about final paychecks, life insurance through work, retirement accounts, and COBRA health insurance continuation for dependents.
6. Secure the home and property
Make sure the deceased person's home is locked and secure. Collect mail regularly. If they lived alone, consider adjusting utility and subscription services.
The First Month
7. Notify government agencies
- Social Security Administration (SSA): Report the death at 1-800-772-1213. The funeral home may do this for you.
- Department of Motor Vehicles: Cancel or transfer the driver's license.
- Post Office: Forward mail if needed.
- Voter registration: Notify your county election office.
8. Contact financial institutions
Notify banks, credit unions, mortgage lenders, credit card companies, and investment firms. Each will have its own process for handling the account of a deceased person.
9. File insurance claims
Contact life insurance providers, health insurance, auto insurance, and homeowner's insurance. Each may require a certified death certificate.
10. Begin the probate process
If the deceased had a will, it must be filed with the local probate court. If there was no will (intestate), the court will determine how assets are distributed according to state law.
Probate varies significantly by state. Your state may offer simplified procedures for smaller estates.
The Following Months
11. File final tax returns
The deceased's final federal and state income tax returns are due by the regular filing deadline (April 15) for the year they died. If the estate earns income, a separate estate tax return (Form 1041) may be required.
12. Distribute assets
Once debts are settled and the probate process allows, assets can be distributed to heirs and beneficiaries according to the will or state law.
13. Close remaining accounts
Cancel subscriptions, close email and social media accounts, and finalize any remaining financial obligations.
You Do Not Have to Do This Alone
This process is complicated and emotionally exhausting. Quok creates a personalized checklist based on your state and situation, so you always know what to do next.
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