When a Death Occurs

When a death occurs, there are so many things to consider and decisions to make. These lists can help you navigate through them.

Notify these people as soon as possible:

• The funeral home to arrange for the transfer of the deceased (usually this can be done within 1-2 hours although it may take longer to obtain a release from the hospital) and set an appointment with you to make further arrangements.
• Relatives, executor/executrix, and friends.
• Employers (the employer of the deceased and relatives who will need time off).
• Insurance agents (life, health, and accident).
• Religious, fraternal, civic and veterans’ organizations, and unions, if applicable.
• Lawyer and accountant.

Secure the vital statistics of deceased:

• Full legal name – other names must be identified by “Also Known As” (AKA).
• Home address and telephone number.
• Name of business or employer’s name, address, and telephone number.
• Industry and occupation.
• Military service serial number.
• Date and place of birth.
• Citizenship.
• Father’s name and birthplace.
• Mother’s name, maiden name, and birthplace.
• Locate the will.

Meet With Funeral Home

Decide within a few hours:

• Shomer services
  
• Chevra Kadisha
  
• Clothing that the deceased will be buried in
• The funeral director will ask if you have made any arrangements with a cemetery. If you have not done this, you will need to visit the cemetery.
  
• Would you like a service at the Synagogue or Graveside? Would you like a reception to follow?
  
• Whether a rabbi will be engaged for the service.
• Pallbearers
• Casket selection
• If you would like a charity to receive donations

Collect documents:

(Required to establish rights for insurance, pensions, survivor benefits, ownership, etc.)

• Will
• Legal proof of age or birth certificate
• Social Security card
• Marriage license
• Citizenship papers
• Insurance policies
• Bank books
• Deeds
• Car ownership papers
• Income tax returns, receipts, or canceled checks
• Military discharge papers

Transporting the Deceased to Another Country for Burial

We have extensive experience shipping loved ones to other countries for burial. If you require international transportation, please advise us as soon as the death has occurred so we can begin making arrangements with the  appropriate authorities. Please be advised that complying with the requirements of other jurisdictions takes time – a minimum of one week, often longer