Funeral Planning Checklist
A step-by-step guide to help you through the funeral planning process.
Your Progress
Immediately After Death
Contact emergency services or hospice to obtain legal pronouncement of death
Inform immediate family members and close friends
If applicable, follow through with donor arrangements
Funeral Home Selection
Research and choose a funeral home that meets your needs and budget
Decide between burial, cremation, or other options
Coordinate with funeral home for transfer of the deceased
Legal & Paperwork
Order multiple copies (typically 5-10) for legal purposes
Notify life insurance, health insurance, and other relevant policies
Contact deceased's employer about benefits and final paycheck
Service Planning
Decide on funeral service, memorial service, or celebration of life
Choose venue and set date/time for the service
Select readings, music, photos, and other ceremonial elements
Logistics & Guests
Compile list of people to notify about the service
Prepare and submit obituary to newspaper and/or online
Book hotels for out-of-town guests if needed
Post-Funeral Tasks
Acknowledge flowers, donations, and acts of kindness
Contact attorney regarding will and estate administration
Cancel or transfer utilities, subscriptions, and accounts