A Practical Guide After a Death – Checklist from RIP.ie

A Practical Guide from RIP.ie

Whether a death is anticipated or unexpected, it is a very difficult time for those close to the deceased. It is also a time when many decisions need to be made, often very soon after the death, which can cause considerable stress.

This practical guide offers a step-by-step overview of the tasks you may need to manage. Not all points will apply to every situation, but many will. If the deceased left instructions regarding funeral preferences or a list of people to notify, your job will be easier. If not, you may need to consult family members and check address books or contact lists.

Immediate Steps

• Contact the next of kin, especially those abroad.
• If a doctor is not present, contact one to obtain a death certificate.
• In cases of sudden or unusual death, do not move anything until the doctor arrives.
• Inform the doctor immediately if the deceased held an organ donor card.
• Locate burial instructions or last wishes.
• If the death occurs at home, contact the Gardaí.
• Notify close friends, relatives, neighbours, employer and colleagues.

Notify Key Contacts

In the days following the death, you may need to contact:

• State authorities (e.g. pension or social welfare offices)
• Insurance agencies and financial institutions
• The deceased’s solicitor

Funeral Arrangements

• Contact a funeral director for support.
• Confirm if a burial plot exists and its location.
• Agree on wake details and location.
• Decide if the body will be on view (open or closed coffin).
• Clarify if the house is private or open to mourners.
• Set the date, time and location of services.
• Write the death notice.
• Choose coffin, casket or pod (for burial).
• Decide on ashes scattering or container (for cremation).
• Choose flowers or charitable donations (mention in death notice).
• Plan prayers, readings, music and structure of the service.
• Ask those involved in the service well in advance.
• Arrange refreshments and book a venue.

Cancel or Redirect Services

You may need to cancel or redirect:

• Standing orders
• Newspaper and journal subscriptions
• Milk or coal deliveries
• Telephone and broadband
• Mobile phone
• Bin collection
• Rent
• TV and radio licence
• Postal services

Special Burial Requests

• For natural or woodland burials, contact organisations like The Green Graveyard Company in Killane, Co. Wexford.
• For religious ceremonies, contact the appropriate religious advisor.
• For non-religious ceremonies, contact the Humanist Association of Ireland.

Secure the Home

Arrange for someone trustworthy to look after the house during the funeral to prevent burglary.

Accept Help

Keep track of those who offer help and thank them later. Tasks may include:

• Cleaning the house
• Looking after children or elderly relatives
• Watering plants
• Caring for pets

Important Documents to Locate

• Death certificate
• Prepaid funeral plans or burial plot documents
• Will and trusts
• Life insurance policies
• Pension and retirement plans
• Investment accounts
• Credit card and bank statements
• Marriage, birth, divorce certificates
• Business ownership documents
• Title deeds for property or vehicles
• Health insurance
• Tax returns
• Safe deposit keys

Inventory of Belongings

Make a list of household goods, valuables and personal items for proper distribution.

Settling the Estate

• If there is a will, the executor named will manage the estate.
• If there is no will, the law will appoint a representative—usually a spouse or adult child.
• Contact financial advisors, solicitors or accountants to check for urgent matters.