When a death occurs, families often need to take care of several administrative tasks. This checklist explains the steps that usually follow and provides clear guidance that helps you stay organized. Each situation is different, although most families find the same general responsibilities apply.
Western Cremation Alliance supports families throughout the cremation process. The information below can help you work through common aftercare needs in a simple and steady way.
Contact an Attorney if the Estate Is Complicated
Some estates are settled without legal help. Others involve real estate, loans, probate, or family considerations that require guidance. An attorney can explain what documents the estate needs and how to move forward. Families in Oregon can follow the same approach and contact a local attorney who handles estate matters.
Create a List of Accounts to Close or Transfer
A complete list helps you track what still needs attention. Most estates involve bank accounts, credit cards, utilities, phone service, online subscriptions, vehicle loans, and rental or mortgage accounts. Reviewing recent email and mail can help identify accounts that may not come to mind right away.
Death certificates are usually required at this stage. Copies may be needed for financial institutions, insurance companies, government agencies, and property offices.
Contact Social Security
Although Social Security receives notice when the death certificate is filed, it is helpful to confirm that their records are fully updated. This prevents issues with benefit overpayments and ensures that Medicare is notified when applicable. Social Security can be reached at 1-800-772-1213 or online.
Submit Life Insurance Claims
If your loved one had a life insurance policy, the company will walk you through their claim requirements. Most insurers ask for a certified death certificate that lists the cause of death. Claims departments will explain how many copies are needed and how to send them.
Notify the Employer
If your loved one was working at the time of death, you can contact the employer’s Human Resources or Payroll department. They can help with final pay, unused vacation hours, health insurance closure, retirement account steps, and the return of any company items. This also prevents payroll errors or continued premium deductions.
Manage Mail, Licenses, and Voter Registration
USPS explains how to forward or stop mail when someone has died. Their instructions are available online.
Families in Washington can cancel or update vehicle-related documents through the Department of Licensing’s
affidavit and release of interest.
Voter registration can also be canceled with the appropriate county office:
Oregon families can follow similar steps through their local DMV and county election offices.
Review Veterans Benefits if Your Loved One Served
Veterans and eligible family members may receive a United States flag, military honors, burial or placement in a national cemetery, or a Presidential Memorial Certificate. Some families may also qualify for partial reimbursement of certain expenses. Required documents vary depending on eligibility and service history.
Order Additional Death Certificates
Banks, financial institutions, and government agencies often require certified copies. Western Cremation Alliance can order additional Washington death certificates within one year from the date of death. After one year, certificates can be obtained through the county or through VitalChek.
Close or Memorialize Social Media and Online Accounts
Online accounts should be secured or closed to protect privacy. Most platforms allow you to deactivate or memorialize an account. The American Red Cross provides a clear overview of how to manage digital accounts after a death.
Submit an Obituary (Optional)
Some families choose to submit an obituary for posting online. Others prefer to publish an obituary through a local newspaper. Details collected during the arrangement process often make this step easier to complete.
If You Need Assistance
Western Cremation Alliance remains available to answer questions during any stage of the process. You can reach us anytime for support or to learn more about the services we provide.
