when death occurs

Contact The Proper Authorities

Before cremation arrangements can begin, a legal pronouncement of death must be made. If your loved one dies in a hospital, nursing home, or other care facility, the staff will typically handle this process. If the death occurs at home, contact the appropriate local authorities. When someone dies while receiving hospice care, the hospice team can generally make the pronouncement.


Once the death has been legally pronounced, you can contact the cremation provider to begin making arrangements.


Begin Direct Cremation Arrangements

If you have chosen direct cremation, the process can be simple and straightforward. Contact the cremation provider as soon as you are ready, and a member of the care team will guide you through the necessary arrangements.


You will provide information needed to complete the required paperwork, including the death certificate and cremation authorization. The cremation provider will also explain the next steps, including transportation, identification, and when the cremation can take place.


If your loved one made arrangements in advance, have those documents available so their wishes can be followed.


Information the Funeral Home May Need

Once you have met the funeral director, they will advise you on any information or paperwork they need for the death certificate or to proceed with making final arrangements.


Information Required:

  • Full name and address
  • Marital status
  • Race/Ethnicity
  • Date and city of birth
  • Highest level of education
  • Father’s name, mother’s maiden name
  • Name of spouse
  • Occupation and employer


Documents Funeral Directors May Need

Funeral directors will need important documents to complete any legal paperwork. These documents include:

  • Account statements
  • Beneficiary designations
  • Life insurance policies
  • Military Discharge papers (form DD 214)
  • Social Security Number


Taking Care Of Personal Property

After a death, there are also practical matters to consider. Secure your loved one’s home, vehicle, and other personal property. If they had a pet, make arrangements for someone to provide care.



You may also need to notify their employer, cancel upcoming appointments, and make arrangements for mail. These tasks do not need to be handled all at once. Focus on what is most important, and allow your cremation provider to help guide you through the immediate steps.