Losing a loved one is one of the most difficult experiences anyone will ever go through. In addition to the emotional pain, there are also many practical matters that need to be taken care of. This can be overwhelming, especially when you are still grieving.
To help you get through this difficult time, we have created a complete checklist of what you need to organise when a loved one dies.
Make a list of important contacts
This should include the names and contact information of your loved one's doctor, lawyer, accountant, financial advisor, and insurance agent. You will also need to contact the Social Security Administration and any other government agencies that your loved one was involved with.Find a funeral director
Funeral directors can help you with all of the arrangements for your loved one's funeral or memorial service. They can also help you with things like obtaining a death certificate and making arrangements for burial or cremation.
When choosing a funeral director, it is important to find someone who you feel comfortable with and who is experienced in handling the needs of grieving families. You can find a list of funeral directors in Melbourne or your area by searching online or contacting your local Better Business Bureau.Make a list of your loved one's assets and debts
This will help you to determine who is responsible for paying your loved one's bills and distributing their assets. You may also need to provide this information to the probate court.Decide on a place for your loved one's funeral or memorial service
You can choose to have your loved one's funeral or memorial service at a funeral home, church, or other place of worship. You can also choose to have a private service at your home.Choose a casket or urn
If your loved one is being buried, you will need to choose a casket. If your loved one is being cremated, you will need to choose an urn.Make arrangements for burial or cremation
If your loved one is being buried, you will need to make arrangements for a cemetery plot. You will also need to decide on a type of burial, such as traditional ground burial or mausoleum burial.
If your loved one is being cremated, you will need to decide what to do with the ashes. You can choose to bury the ashes, scatter them, or keep them in an urn.
Notify your loved one's employer and other organisations
You will need to notify your loved one's employer of their death. You may also need to notify other organisations, such as your loved one's bank, credit card companies, and utility companies.File for Social Security benefits
If your loved one was receiving Social Security benefits, you may be eligible to continue receiving them. You will need to file for survivor benefits with the Social Security Administration.Update your loved one's will
If your loved one had a will, you will need to update it to reflect their death. You may also need to go through the probate process to distribute your loved one's assets.Take care of yourself
Grieving is a normal process, and it is important to take care of yourself during this time. Make sure to eat healthy, get enough sleep, and exercise regularly. You may also want to talk to a therapist or counsellor to help you cope with your grief.
Additional tips
Take your time. There is no need to rush through these arrangements. Take your time and do what you need to do to honor your loved one.
Ask for help. Don't be afraid to ask for help from friends, family, or a funeral director.
Document everything. Keep a record of all of the arrangements you make. This will be helpful if you need to file for insurance benefits or go through the probate process.
Take care of yourself. Grieving is a normal process, and it is important to take care of yourself during this time. Make sure to eat healthy, get enough sleep, and exercise regularly. You may also want to talk to a therapist or counsellor to help you cope with your grief.
Conclusion
Losing a loved one is a difficult experience, but it is important to take care of the practical matters that need to be taken care of. Remember that grief is a personal journey, and there is no right or wrong way to grieve. It is important to find healthy ways to express your emotions and to seek support from loved ones. If you are struggling to cope with your grief, please don't hesitate to reach out to a mental health professional. They can provide you with the support and guidance you need to heal. By following this checklist, you can help ensure that your loved one's wishes are fulfilled.