Guide – What to Do in the Event of a Death

1. Immediately After the Death Occurs

• The death must be officially confirmed.

• Contact the family doctor or the medical on-call service by calling 116 117.

• If the person passes away in a hospital, nursing home, or senior care facility, the staff will arrange for a doctor to issue the death certificate.

• Inform close family members and relatives who can provide assistance.

• Gather important documents such as the identity card, birth certificate, marriage certificate, etc.

• Locate any contracts, arrangements, and declarations, and act accordingly (for example: a will, funeral pre-arrangement contract, organ donation declaration, cremation instructions, funeral directives, etc.).

2. Choosing a Funeral Director and Further Arrangements

• Select a funeral home and arrange an appointment to discuss the next steps.

• The funeral director will transfer the deceased to their facilities.

• The funeral director will assist with all necessary formalities, including applying for the death certificate from the relevant registry office.

• They act as an intermediary and advisor between institutions, authorities, and the family.

• Decide on the type of funeral (burial or cremation).

• Select the coffin and its furnishings, and if applicable, choose an urn.

• Decide on the musical arrangements for the funeral service.

• Prepare and arrange funeral stationery and memorial cards.

• Draft and place an obituary notice in the newspaper, if desired.

• Schedule the funeral date in consultation with the cemetery administration.

• Notify the deceased person's employer and inform relatives, friends, and acquaintances.

3. Cemetery Administration

• Arrange the funeral date and, if required, a memorial or funeral service.

• Select the cemetery and the type of grave.

• Extend existing grave rights if applicable.   

4. Notifications

• Print funeral or memorial cards for the funeral service.

• Consider placing a death notice in the local newspaper.

5. Restaurant, Café, or Community Hall

• Make reservations at a restaurant, café, or other suitable venue for gathering after the funeral service.

• Many funeral homes also offer reception facilities on their premises.

6. Florist

Order wreaths, bouquets, floral tributes, and grave arrangements.

7. Additional Matters

• If financial assistance for funeral expenses may be available, submit the necessary applications as soon as possible.

• Funeral directors can provide guidance and support regarding the required procedures.

• For example, if the next of kin responsible for arranging the funeral receive social assistance benefits, they may be eligible to apply to their local social welfare authority for coverage of funeral costs.

8. Notify Insurance Companies and Public Authorities

Review all insurance policies that were held by the deceased.
Inform the relevant insurance providers of the death and claim any benefits that may be due.
Certain public authorities or government agencies may also provide financial benefits or support.

9. Review and Cancel Contracts

• Cancel contracts, subscriptions, memberships, and other ongoing obligations where appropriate.

• Reviewing bank statements and payment records can help identify recurring payments that should be stopped.

• Remember to manage the deceased person's digital estate, including social media accounts, email services, online shopping accounts, and other digital platforms.

• For further assistance, please contact the Cemetery Administration or your chosen funeral director. They will be happy to guide you through the necessary arrangements.