Someone just died. Here’s what to do first.

The First 5 Calls

1. 1.If they died at home under hospice care, call hospice first, not 911. If the death was sudden or unexpected, call 911.
2. 2.If they died in a hospital or nursing facility, the staff will handle the pronouncement. They will ask which funeral home to call. Ask them how much time you have to decide. You usually have a little.
3. 3.Call two funeral homes and ask for prices over the phone. Under the FTC Funeral Rule, they have to give you prices by phone, and a printed General Price List when you meet in person.
4. 4.Ask: “Is embalming required for what we’re choosing?” In most situations it is not required by law. You can say no.
5. 5.Call one person to sit with you. You should not do the arrangement meeting alone.

What can wait a few days

• Social Security (the funeral home often reports the death for you)
• Life insurance claims
• Banks, credit cards and utilities
• Ordering extra death certificates (most families need several)

Find these papers if you can

• Any prearranged or prepaid funeral contract
• Military discharge papers (DD-214) for possible VA burial benefits
• Their written wishes, if they left any

General information from my years in funeral service, not legal or financial advice. Rules vary by state.

Nathan Morris. nathanmorrismusic.com/first48