What to do when someone dies: step-by-step

What to do when someone dies: your step-by-step guide for support and advice 

Dealing with the passing of a loved one is a heartbreaking and emotional journey. No matter how prepared we think we might be, the shock and grief can be overwhelming.    In this guide, we'll walk you through the necessary steps to follow when someone in your family or close to you passes away. If the death occurs in a hospital or nursing home, rest assured that they will assist with most of these formalities.

Arrange for a doctor's certificate

The first thing you should do after a loved one's passing is to arrange for a doctor to confirm the event. This certificate is essential, as it officially records the person's passing and outlines the cause. Funeral homes will require this certificate before proceeding with their services.

Notify the appropriate people

After the passing of a loved one, notify certain individuals. This includes:

Friends and family

Your immediate circle should be the first to know. They can provide invaluable support and assistance during this challenging time.

Next of kin 

If you are not the next of kin, it's vital to inform them promptly. In the absence of a will, the next of kin will assume responsibility for handling your loved one's person's estate.

Insurance providers 

If you are the next of kin and are aware of any life insurance policies, contact the insurance company as soon as possible. They will guide you through the process of claiming the insurance payout.

Register the death 

Once you have the doctor's certificate and have informed the necessary parties, you must register the death. In most cases, the funeral director will assist in obtaining the death certificate. If you are not using a funeral director's services, you'll need to contact the relevant government births, deaths and marriages in the state or territory where the person passed away.   RELATED ARTICLE: What Does 'Probate' Mean in Australia?

Determine the status of the estate 

When someone passes away, their estate can fall into two categories: with a will or without a will. If there is a will, it should provide clear instructions on who will act as the executor and how the assets and debts are to be handled. To access these assets, the executor must apply for a grant of probate.   If no will exists, the responsibility falls on the next of kin. They will need to apply for a letter of administration to access your loved one's belongings and accounts. If the person had assets in multiple states or countries, you may need to apply for a reseal of probate.   Locating the will should be a top priority to ensure your loved one's final wishes are honoured. Start your search with the person's lawyer, correspondence, or the state registry office where the death certificate was filed.

Plan the funeral

Arranging a funeral for a loved one can be a complex and emotional process. Typically, family members collaborate with a funeral director to coordinate the details, including the location of the cemetery. Before proceeding, it's essential to locate the will to see if your loved one had specific wishes regarding the funeral arrangements, such as burial or cremation.

Leave behind a will 

To ensure your own estate is managed according to your wishes, it's crucial to create a will. A will allows you to specify your final wishes and designate an executor to oversee the process. When someone you care about passes away, it's essential to follow these steps promptly and locate their will as soon as possible.   Remember, dealing with the loss of a loved one is never easy, but following these steps can help you navigate this difficult time with support and advice.   RELATED ARTICLE: Living wills: What are they, and why are they important?