The First 24
In the first 24 hours after a loss, you don't need to have every answer. You need to know what to do first, who to call, and what can wait. This guide walks you through each step — calmly, one at a time.
I need help with...
Important
Pronouncement comes first. The funeral home comes second.
Do not rush any major financial decisions in the first 24 hours.
Do not give away belongings yet.
Do not close accounts immediately.
Wait until close family is informed before posting publicly.
When You're Ready
Start collecting these when you're ready — no rush right now.
Full legal name
→Date of birth
→Social Security number
→Government-issued ID
→Funeral, burial, or cremation wishes and gather prepaid funeral documents if applicable
→Organ donation wishes
→Will, trust, or estate papers
→Life insurance information
→Marriage or divorce papers if applicable
→Military records if applicable
→First things first
The paperwork can wait a few hours.
Drink water
Eat something small
Sit down and rest
Reach out to your clergy
"The purpose of this guide is to ensure you do not have to figure this out alone."
Browse all of our step-by-step guides — organized by what to do first, next, and the legal questions that follow.
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