When a loved one passes away, managing their personal and professional contacts can feel overwhelming. From notifying family and friends to handling financial and legal obligations, knowing who to call first can help ease the burden during an already difficult time. In the guide below, we’ll walk you through the most important calls to make and why they matter.
Who Should You Call First After a Loved One’s Death?
1. A Close Family Member or Trusted Friend
Grief can be isolating, and having emotional support is crucial. Contacting a close relative or trusted friend first provides immediate comfort and can also help you manage the next steps. They should assist in notifying others, making arrangements, and providing much-needed emotional relief. In most cases, we recommend notifying a family member AND a friend asap.
2. Primary Care Physician or Hospice Provider
If the deceased was under medical care, their primary care physician or hospice provider should be notified asap. They can officially confirm the death and provide necessary documentation, such as a medical certificate, which is required for obtaining a death certificate. This step is essential for handling legal and estate matters.
3. Funeral Home or Mortuary
Once a death has been confirmed, you’ll need to contact a funeral home or mortuary to begin arrangements. They will help schedule an appointment and retrieve the body for you. In the case that your loved one pre-paid for a funeral or cremation services, be sure to call the business they went through. Funeral directors can guide you through planning services, handling transportation, and managing necessary paperwork, including death certificates.
Managing the Deceased’s Personal and Professional Contacts
5. Employer and Colleagues
If the deceased was employed, reach out to their workplace. The HR department can assist with final paycheck distribution, benefits, and retirement account transfers. Colleagues may also want to pay their respects or offer condolences to the family.
6. Legal and Financial Institutions
Contacting banks, insurance providers, and estate attorneys is critical for settling financial affairs. Key entities to notify include:
Financial Advisor – To freeze financial accounts.
Life Insurance Companies – To initiate claims and beneficiary payments.
Estate Attorneys or Executors – To begin the probate process and distribute assets accordingly, especially if a trust or will is not provided. If a trust is in place, you won't necessarily need an estate attorney unless you prefer to work with one.
7. Social Security Administration and Government Agencies
If the deceased was receiving Social Security benefits, you must inform the Social Security Administration to prevent overpayments. Other government agencies, such as the Department of Veterans Affairs, should also be contacted if applicable.
Why Reaching Out Matters
Making these calls ensures that your loved one’s affairs are handled properly, avoiding complications down the line. It also provides closure to friends and colleagues who may not be aware of their passing. Having a clear plan in place can make a challenging time more manageable.
How The Deadbook Can Help
Managing the aftermath of a loved one’s passing is daunting, but The Deadbook is here to help. Our easy-to-use platform provides step-by-step guidance on estate planning, financial account management, and end-of-life organization so you don’t have to navigate this process alone.
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