What To Do Right After a Loved One Passes Away

DWquale on June 2, 2025

Losing a loved one is never easy. While you are grieving, there are also many practical steps that need to be taken, often sooner than you expect. If you are feeling overwhelmed or unsure of where to start, this guide will help you understand what to do in the first hours, days, and weeks following a death.

Immediate Tasks

In the very beginning, focus on the most time-sensitive matters:

  • Notify close family and friends so they can begin to support you and each other
  • Arrange care for pets or dependents to ensure their immediate well-being
  • Secure the home and valuables, especially if the property will be vacant
  • Choose a funeral home or provider to begin making arrangements
  • Remove perishable items from the home if it will be unoccupied
  • Notify the employer of the deceased
  • Contact trusted professionals such as an estate attorney, financial advisor, CPA, or realtor

Planning the Memorial

Honoring your loved one’s life may include:

  • Choosing the type of memorial or funeral service
  • Selecting a venue, setting a date and time
  • Deciding who will speak or participate in the service
  • Creating an invitation list and ordering printed programs
  • Gathering photos or videos for a media tribute
  • Arranging food, drink, flowers, or decorations
  • Offering guests guidance on where to send gifts or donations
  • Choosing the final resting place such as burial or cremation

Next Steps to Handle Early

Once immediate tasks are handled:

  • Write and submit an obituary
  • Notify the broader community
  • Request 5 to 10 original death certificates for legal and financial purposes
  • Locate important documents such as the will, insurance policies, social security card, driver’s license, and account statements

Securing Vacant Property

If the deceased lived alone or the home will be unoccupied:

  • Lock all doors and windows
  • Notify local police or authorities to request extra patrols
  • Place No Trespassing signage
  • Winterize the home by shutting off water, draining lines, and maintaining heat

Managing Financial Matters

Begin by contacting:

  • Life insurance companies to start claim processes
  • The Social Security Office to report the death and ask about survivor benefits
  • The Veterans Affairs office if your loved one served in the military
  • The deceased’s employer to inquire about benefits
  • Utility services to transfer or cancel accounts

You Do Not Have to Do This Alone

This list is just the beginning. Every estate is different, and unexpected details may come up. If you are looking for help connecting with reliable professionals such as probate attorneys, estate sale companies, or financial advisors, or if you want one on one support, consider reaching out to us at Colorado Estate Services or Kylee at After Loss Advisors.

No one should have to navigate this time alone. We are here to help you move forward with compassion, clarity, and trusted resources.

You can click below to download a printable version of this checklist and keep it on hand as you take the next steps.