What to Do When Someone Dies

After the death of a loved one, the volume of decisions and responsibilities can feel overwhelming. This article provides a comprehensive, step-by-step checklist to help surviving family members navigate what needs to be done from the moment of death through the weeks and months that follow the funeral. Organized by urgency rather than strict chronology, it covers immediate actions, funeral planning, legal and financial responsibilities, and practical tasks related to the deceased’s home, accounts, and personal affairs. Designed primarily for close survivors but useful for anyone offering support, the guide brings clarity and structure to a difficult time, helping families focus on what matters most while ensuring essential details are not overlooked.

What Documents Need to be Prepared Before a Death?

These six papers need to be ready so everyone can rest a little easier.

What You Need to Know About an Autopsy Report

An autopsy is a medical examination of a body after death. They're performed after some, but not all, deaths in order to learn what caused their death or to get more information about their death. Other terms for an autopsy are post-mortem examination and necropsy. 

Palliative Care vs. Hospice: What's the Difference?

Palliative care and hospice are both prescribed to provide comfort and relief to someone who is suffering from an illness or medical condition. But they're not the same thing. 

What Does Next of Kin Mean?

In general, next of kin means one's closest living blood relatives. The term has important legal meaning in regard to inheritance rights and medical decisions.

Where to Store Your Will (Like Aretha Franklin Didn't)

Your family can't honor your last wishes if they can't find your will.

What Is a Living Will or DNR Order?

A living will is a document you can create that details what lifesaving medical procedures you do or don't want performed on you in the event of your terminal illness or injury. It's used when you are unable to speak your wishes.

What to Do When a Veteran Dies

When you’re grieving a loss, just the idea of paperwork may feel overwhelming. But when your partner was a member of the armed services, you know that needing signatures and signoffs is part of the process. To help you navigate this difficult time as smoothly as possible, here’s a checklist of what you have to do when a veteran passes away.

Five Ways to Cover Funeral Costs in Advance

Banks, insurance providers, and funeral homes all offer solutions for pre-planning funeral expenses.

What Funeral Benefits Am I Eligible For?

There are many government and private programs designed to help families pay for funerals. As you plan a funeral, make sure you and your family know what benefits are available. ( .)

What is a HIPAA Release and Why Do I Need One?

This document allows family members to access your medical care information.

What Is Durable POA for Finances?

This power-of-attorney directive specifies who can make financial decisions if you're incapacitated.

What Is Durable POA for Health Care?

This power-of-attorney directive specifies who can make medical decisions if you're incapacitated.

How to Write a Living Will

Your living will is the final word if you are unable to communicate a choice due to illness or injury.