Funeral arrangements checklist

Report the death to the police, a reputable funeral parlour, and their employer if they were employed. These formalities are critical in order for the death to be formally recorded and a death certificate to be issued.

Inform your extended family and friends of their passing. As this will be an extremely emotional time for you and your family, you will need all the love and support available.

Contact your Funeral Cover provider to inform them of the death of your loved one. This is vitally important in order to claim the funeral policy to help you take care of the costs involved in planning the funeral. Ensure you have the death certificate and any other official documents your provider needs in order to approve your claim.

Start the official funeral arrangements by organising a date, time and venue. These details must be sent out to those wishing to attend the funeral. Ensure you’ve taken note of the deceased’s burial wishes, and organise the burial according to their faith and specifications. This will include how they’d like to be buried, the type of coffin they wished to be buried in, who the pallbearers will be, and a funeral programme or order of events.

During this time, it is also important to take care of the legal side of the deceased's affairs by notifying their banks, creditors, cellphone contract providers, and any other relevant companies that they were connected to at the time of their death. This will ensure that no more money is spent on these transactions and you can arrange for their will to be disclosed to the relevant beneficiary.

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Frequently asked questions

What should I do immediately after a death?

You should report the death to the police or a medical professional and contact a funeral parlour. These steps are required for the death to be officially recorded and for a death certificate to be issued.

Who should I notify after a loved one passes away?

You should inform close family, friends, and the deceased’s employer if applicable. It is also important to notify their financial institutions, service providers, and other relevant organisations.

How do I claim from a Funeral Cover policy?

Contact the Funeral Cover provider as soon as possible. You will need supporting documents such as the death certificate and any additional paperwork required by the insurer to process the claim.

What arrangements need to be made for the funeral?

You will need to organise the date, time, and venue, and ensure the burial or cremation aligns with the deceased’s wishes. This includes selecting the coffin, arranging pallbearers, and preparing a funeral programme.

What legal matters need to be handled after death?

You will need to notify banks, creditors, and service providers to stop ongoing charges. The deceased’s will should also be located and handled according to legal processes to ensure assets are distributed correctly.

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FSP number: 16357. Block A, Steyn City Capital Park, Erling Road, Riverglen, Dainfern, 2191

*Based on independent research by Kaufman Levin & Associates 2025.

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