Coping with Loss: A Checklist for Dealing with the Loss of a Loved One

Losing a loved one is an incredibly challenging experience. When dealing with the loss of a family member, we understand that it can be exceptionally difficult to concentrate on administrative and other practical tasks. Utilize this checklist as a guide to assist you in navigating through the various details that require attention during this hard time:

Losing a loved one is a shared experience, and notifying close family and friends is the first step. Consider making a list of people to contact and ask for support. Share the news in a way that feels comfortable to you, whether it's through phone calls, messages, or in-person visits.

Gather important documents like the will, insurance policies, and any pre-arranged funeral plans. These documents are crucial for legal and financial matters that may arise in the aftermath of a loved one's passing.

Other documents you’ll want to locate include: Prior arrangement for anatomical gift, prepaid funeral or cremation documents, deed to a cemetery plot, safe-deposit box, if any, deeds and titles of property, birth, marriage, divorce, prenuptial, child support, and military discharge documents, birth or adoption documents of children, brokerage and bank account statements and checkbooks, credit card statements, pension and retirement plan administrators, life insurance contracts, including policies through associations, employers, and banks, annuity contracts and any business buy-sell agreements.

Funeral homes are experienced in handling the practical aspects of memorializing a loved one. When contacting a funeral home, discuss funeral service options, costs, and any specific requests you have. They can also help with obtaining death certificates and assist in coordinating the transportation of the deceased.

Other people you’ll want to contact include: the primary care physician, the deceased’s place of worship, the deceased’s current and past employers, associations, clubs, unions, professional organizations, financial advisors, insurance companies, including health, dental, life, disability, long-term care, automobile, and home insurers, attorney, if necessary, accountant, executor, trustee, service providers, such as housekeepers, landscapers, trash collectors, landlord, dentists, and other health care professionals, credit card companies, U.S. Post Office, social security administration, veterans administration, U.S. citizenship, and immigration services (if not U.S. citizen), state department of motor vehicles, and all credit-reporting agencies.

Work closely with the funeral home to plan a service that reflects the wishes of the deceased person and provides comfort to those grieving. Consider details such as the type of service, burial, or cremation preferences, and any religious or cultural traditions.

­You’ll also need to arrange for your bereavement leave, Obituary, certified copies of death certificates, security for the deceased’s home and close relatives during the funeral, care for minors and dependent family members and care for pets.

Consult with an attorney to navigate legal matters associated with the deceased person's estate. This may include probate proceedings, addressing outstanding debts, and ensuring the proper distribution of assets according to their wishes.

Inform the deceased person's employer, banks, and any other relevant institutions about the passing. Inquire about benefits, pensions, or life insurance policies that may be applicable. This step helps to manage financial matters and settle any outstanding accounts.

Identify and cancel or transfer services in the deceased person's name, such as utilities, subscriptions, and memberships. This helps prevent unnecessary charges and ensures a smooth transition.

Decide how to handle the deceased person's online presence. Some people choose to memorialize social media accounts as a way of preserving memories, while others may opt to close accounts. Reach out to the respective platforms for assistance in managing online profiles.

Grieving is a unique and personal process. Take the time you need to cope with your emotions. Allow yourself moments of rest, reflection, and self-care. Surround yourself with understanding friends and family who can provide support.

Connect with support groups, grief counselors, or therapists who specialize in bereavement. Having a strong support system can make the grieving process more manageable. Remember, there is no right or wrong way to grieve, and everyone copes differently. Take each step at your own pace and lean on your support network when needed. It's okay to ask for help, and prioritizing your well-being is essential during this challenging time.

Click below to download the printable checklist.