What is the first thing to do when someone dies?

The first step is to have a medical professional officially pronounce the death. In a hospital or care facility, staff handle this. At home with hospice, call the hospice nurse. For unexpected home deaths, call 911. Once the death is pronounced, contact a funeral home to arrange transportation of the body.

How many death certificates do I need?

You typically need 10 to 15 certified copies of the death certificate. Banks, insurance companies, the Social Security Administration, retirement accounts, and government agencies each require an original certified copy. Your funeral home can help you order the appropriate number.

Do you have to notify Social Security when someone dies?

Yes. You must notify the Social Security Administration when a recipient dies. Call 1-800-772-1213 to report the death. Any benefit payments received for the month of death or after must be returned. Surviving spouses or dependents may be eligible for survivor benefits.

What to Do When Someone Dies: A Complete Step-by-Step Checklist

Losing a loved one is overwhelming, and the hours and days that follow can feel like a blur. Knowing what to do when someone dies can provide much-needed clarity during an incredibly difficult time. This step-by-step checklist is designed to guide you through the practical tasks, so you can focus on what matters most — being there for your family.

Immediate Steps: The First Few Hours

The first actions you take depend on where the death occurred. Try to stay as calm as possible and work through these steps one at a time.

If they passed in a hospital or care facility: The medical staff will handle the official declaration of death and guide you through next steps. Ask for copies of the death certificate — you will typically need 10 to 15 certified copies for banks, insurance companies, and government agencies.
If they passed at home with hospice care: Call the hospice nurse, who will come to the home to officially pronounce the death. Hospice will also help coordinate transport to the funeral home.
If the death was unexpected at home: Call 911 immediately. Paramedics will respond and, if necessary, the coroner or medical examiner will be notified. Do not move or disturb anything until authorities arrive.

Within the First 24 Hours

Once the immediate shock begins to settle, there are several important tasks to address:

Check for organ donation wishes: Review the deceased's driver's license and advance directive. Organ donation is time-sensitive, so notify the hospital as soon as possible if they were a registered donor.
Contact a funeral home: If one hasn't been pre-selected, now is the time to choose. Use a service like Eternal Dream to compare funeral homes in your area, view transparent pricing, and read reviews before making a decision under pressure.
Notify immediate family and close friends: Start with the closest family members. Consider asking a trusted friend or relative to help spread the word to extended family, neighbors, and community members.
Arrange care for dependents: If the deceased was a caregiver for children, elderly parents, or pets, arrange temporary care immediately.
Secure the home: If the deceased lived alone, ensure their home is locked and secure. Collect valuables, mail, and important documents.

Within the First Week

As you begin planning the funeral or memorial service, you will also need to handle administrative matters:

Obtain certified death certificates: Your funeral home will typically help you order these. Request at least 10 to 15 copies, as banks, insurance companies, the Social Security Administration, and other institutions each require an original.
Locate the will and important documents: Search for the will, trust documents, life insurance policies, bank account information, and any pre-planned funeral arrangements.
Contact the employer: Notify the deceased's employer to inquire about final paychecks, life insurance benefits, pension plans, and any outstanding benefits.
Notify Social Security: Call the Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213 to report the death. Surviving spouses may be eligible for survivor benefits.
Contact life insurance companies: File claims as soon as possible. You will need the death certificate and policy numbers.

Within the First Month

Cancel or transfer accounts: Contact utility companies, subscription services, credit card companies, and other recurring billing services.
Notify the DMV: Cancel the deceased's driver's license to prevent identity theft.
Forward mail: Set up mail forwarding through the post office to catch any correspondence that may require action.
Consult a financial advisor or attorney: If the estate is complex, professional guidance can help navigate probate, taxes, and asset distribution.

Taking Care of Yourself

While working through this checklist, remember that your own well-being matters too. Grief takes a physical and emotional toll. Accept help when it's offered, eat regular meals, rest when you can, and don't hesitate to reach out to a grief counselor or support group. You don't have to do everything alone.

At Eternal Dream, we understand how overwhelming this time can be. Our platform is designed to simplify one of the biggest decisions you'll face — choosing the right funeral home — so you can focus on healing and honoring the person you love.