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Death checklist: An empathetic guide for a difficult time

The loss of a loved one is a drastic experience. In the midst of grief and emotional stress, the bereaved are suddenly faced with numerous organizational and administrative tasks. Our guide will help you to maintain an overview during this difficult time, and to take the necessary steps in a structured and calm manner.

First steps after an event of death

When someone passes away – whether at home, in hospital or in a care facility – you first need a moment to take a deep breath. A doctor must determine the death as soon as possible and issue the death certificate. This contains important information, such as the time of death and the cause of death. If the cause of death is not clear, the police must be informed. 

What counts at this moment:

  • Inform loved ones gently
  • Notify the employer of the event of death
  • Notify home-care services or other support persons
  • Ensure pets are taken care of
  • Cancel upcoming appointments

The funeral: A personal farewell

In the days following the death, the focus is on organizing the funeral. Planning the funeral service itself can be a valuable moment of saying goodbye. An empathetic funeral director can guide you through this process and take on many organizational tasks.

What to do now:

  • Contact a funeral director
  • Determine the type of burial (e.g. burial in the ground, cremation or burial at sea), and the place and time of the funeral service – ideally in accordance with the wishes of the deceased person
  • Compose and publish obituary (print/online)
  • Choose music, personal words and rituals to remember the deceased person
  • Organize flower arrangements and decorations for the burial
  • Prepare thank you cards
Important documents and records

After a death, various documents and papers need to be compiled in order to complete the necessary formalities and deal with the authorities.
Here is an overview of the most important documents:

  • ID or passport of the deceased: For identification and official formalities.
  • Death certificate: This is issued by the doctor and is essential for the next steps.
  • Family book: Contains key information on marital status, birth, marriage and family relationships.
  • Will or testamentary contract: If available, for the settlement of inheritance matters.
  • Health insurance card: To inform the health insurance company about the event of death.
  • Insurance policies: Life insurance, accident insurance and other relevant insurance policies.
  • Pension documents: Documents on pension entitlements and pension payments.
  • Bank documents: Statements of assets, bank statements and credit card information to manage or block the accounts.
  • Rental agreement or proof of ownership: To clarify the living situation of the deceased.
  • Employment contracts and payslips: If the deceased was still working.
  • Vehicle documents: Registration certificate and insurance policies.

After the funeral: Authorities, formalities and...

After the funeral service, another, often challenging, part begins: Formalities surrounding the death. Some of these tasks can be taken over by the funeral home, but many remain with the relatives. Even if it's difficult – these things create legal clarity and provide orientation for the coming weeks.

These tasks now need to be dealt with:

  • Report the death to the registry office – with death certificate, ID and family book
  • Apply for a death certificate as official confirmation of death (required for authorities, banks, insurance companies, etc.)
  • Inform the residents' registration office, deregister the deceased person
  • Update family book, have marital status recorded (e.g. for married persons)
  • Have marriage documents updated, if applicable (e.g. new marital status of the surviving dependent)

...take care financial and legal matters

Many financial and legal issues cannot be postponed. Especially in the time after the funeral, it is helpful to proceed step by step – and to seek professional support if you are unsure.

You should tackle this now:

  • Have bank accounts blocked to prevent misuse – death certificate required
  • Submit a will and have it opened by the competent authority
  • Apply for a certificate of inheritance in order to have legal access to the estate
  • Notify insurance companies, including life, accident, health insurance and OASI
  • Clarify pension entitlements, e.g. widow's/widower's pension or orphan's pension
  • Consult a tax advisor, e.g. for the last tax return or for inheritance issues
Risk life insurance – for the protection of your loved ones

 Take precautions with risk life insurance from Zurich: This way, your loved ones are covered in the event of your death and don't have to worry about financial matters on top of the emotional burden.

Take care of the housing situation and estate

After the farewell, you will need to sort out the inheritance. Whether it's a rented apartment or their own home – the living situation of the deceased person must be settled. At the same time, questions will arise about personal items, digital access and long-term memories.

This needs to be done now:

  • Clarify the living situation – terminate or transfer rental agreement, check financing (e.g. mortgage) for residential property, and make new arrangements if necessary
  • Organize a household clearance, alone or with professional help
  • Carefully go through valuables and personal mementos
  • Take care of the digital estate, e.g. email accounts, social media, online services
  • Plan grave care and any memorial service and, if necessary, discuss with relatives
  • Legal administration of the estate – recording assets and debts, arranging distribution in accordance with the will or the law
  • Involve an executor or legal support if there are uncertainties

Coping with grief and support

Saying goodbye to a loved one is not only an organizational challenge, but above all an emotional one. Do not hesitate to seek professional help – be it psychological counseling, grief groups or pastoral care.

Many people find comfort in sharing their experiences with other sufferers. You may also want to send thank you cards or create a personalized place of remembrance.

Provision for your loved ones

The better your personal wishes and documents are prepared, the easier it will be for relatives in the event of an emergency. Our "Arrangements in the event of death" checklist will help you to compile important documents and information in good time – from funeral wishes to contract overviews.