- Secure the Premises and Assets: Lock the decedent’s residence, secure vehicles, and arrange
for pet care. Ensure short-term care and financial support for pets are established immediately.
- Arrange Funeral or Cremation: Locate the decedent’s written wishes, pre-need contracts, or
letters of instruction. Contact a funeral home or cremation society to coordinate transport. The
funeral director will typically draft and file the death certificate.
- Request Certified Death Certificates: Order at least ten to fifteen certified copies from
the county registrar or funeral home. You will need original certified copies for every financial
institution, insurance company, and government agency.