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What to do first when someone dies

You don't have to do all of this today. Here are the things people are most often asked about, in a sensible order, each with the official page it comes from.

  1. Choose a funeral home when you’re ready

    You can call more than one. The Federal Trade Commission suggests comparing prices from at least two funeral homes, and reminds families that a simpler funeral can still honor the person who died. (Source: FTC: Shopping for Funeral Services)

    Search for funeral homes near you.

  2. Ask for prices by phone

    Funeral directors must give you price information over the phone if you ask, and you don’t have to give your name, address or phone number first. (Source: FTC: The FTC Funeral Rule)

  3. Know that embalming is usually a choice

    Most states don’t require embalming for every death, and refrigeration is often an acceptable alternative. Direct cremation and immediate burial don’t require it. (Source: FTC: The FTC Funeral Rule)

  4. Order certified copies of the death certificate

    Many organizations ask for a certified copy, including Social Security and other government agencies. Simpler tasks, like canceling a subscription, may only need a photocopy. For a death in the U.S., the vital records office in the state where the death happened explains how to order copies, what they cost and how long they take. (Source: USAGov: How to get a certified copy of a death certificate)

  5. Social Security

    A funeral home will usually tell Social Security when someone dies, so you may not need to report the death yourself. Ask the funeral home to be sure. (Source: Social Security: Survivor benefits)

  6. If the person served in the military

    Veterans, service members and some family members may be eligible for burial in a VA national cemetery. Families can also apply for a headstone, marker, medallion, Presidential Memorial Certificate, plaque or urn, and for a burial allowance to help pay for funeral services, burial and transportation. (Source: VA: Burial benefits and memorial items)

  7. Before you pay, read the itemized statement

    Once you choose arrangements, and before you pay, the funeral home must give you a written statement listing every item you selected, its price and the total. (Source: FTC: The FTC Funeral Rule) More about costs and your rights.

This page is general information, not legal advice. Pages read Nov 5, 2026.

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