After Loss Resources

After Loss Checklist

This document outlines the steps to take after a loss and how an after-loss professional can help with tasks such as securing pet care, notifying relevant parties, finding essential documents, and managing financial and legal matters. The five most important points of this checklist are:

  1. Secure care for pets and dependents: Ensure that pets and dependents are immediately cared for. ​

  2. Notify the estate attorney and financial advisor: Inform the necessary legal and financial professionals to begin managing the estate. ​

  3. Plan funeral services: Organize and plan the funeral services for the lost loved one. ​

  4. Obtain death certificate: Acquire the official death certificate, essential for many subsequent processes. ​

  5. Notify life insurance companies: Start the claims process for life insurance to manage financial aspects related to the loss. ​

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Death Notification

Notify immediate family and close friends first (spouses, children, parents, siblings). Then inform other relatives, employers, and relevant organizations. Notify compassionately and promptly. Obtain a death certificate from local authorities for administrative purposes. Key points to remember are:

  1. Notify immediate family members and close friends first in the event of a death.

  2. Inform other relatives, employers, and relevant organizations or institutions afterward.

  3. Communicate the news with compassion and in a timely manner.

  4. Obtain a death certificate from local authorities for administrative purposes.

  5. The death certificate is required to settle the deceased person's estate, close accounts, and claim insurance benefits.

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Death Away From Home

When a death occurs away from home, it can be challenging for family and loved ones. First, notify local authorities and obtain a death certificate. Contact a local funeral director for arrangements to transport the deceased home. Loss of Life Advocates can provide support and guidance, assisting with transportation logistics and offering compassionate help. Reach out to a trusted family member or legal representative for additional support. Consider the deceased's wishes and any prearranged plans. Consulting a professional funeral service provider can ensure the process is handled with care. The five key points of this checklist are:

  1. Notify local authorities and obtain a death certificate when a death occurs away from home.

  2. Contact a funeral director in the area where the death occurred to arrange for transportation of the deceased back home.

  3. Seek support and guidance from organizations like Loss of Life Advocates and trusted family members, friends, or legal representatives.

  4. Consider the deceased person's wishes and any prearranged plans for their final arrangements.

  5. Seek assistance from a professional and experienced funeral service provider to ensure that everything is handled with care and respect.

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Funeral Home Checklist

When arranging funeral services at a funeral home, it's important to bring specific items and information to ensure a smooth process. You will need to provide the full name, date of birth, date of death, and Social Security number of the deceased. It's also helpful to have details about any pre-arrangements, if applicable, and information about who will be responsible for the funeral expenses. Additionally, you should bring clothing for the deceased, such as a suit, dress, or other attire that reflects their personality and preferences. Personal items like photographs, favorite belongings, or mementos may be requested for display or inclusion during the service. Lastly, having a list of family and friends' contact information can be useful for organizing notifications and sending invitations and thank-you notes. The five most important points of this checklist are:

  1. Provide the deceased's full name, date of birth, date of death, and Social Security number.

  2. Share details about any pre-arrangements and information about who will be responsible for the funeral expenses.

  3. Bring clothing for the deceased that reflects their personality and preferences.

  4. Personal items like photographs, favorite belongings, or mementos may be requested for display during the service.

  5. Have a list of family and friends' contact information for notifications, invitations, and thank-you notes.

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