Making Arrangements
What to do first, who signs, how pickup works and when the ashes come home.
What to Do When a Loved One Dies: A Step-by-Step Plan Learn who to call first when a loved one dies, how to arrange care, and which family, paperwork, benefits, and estate tasks to handle next. Do Cremation Providers Pick Up From Home, Hospital or Hospice? Learn who to call for cremation pickup from home, a hospital or hospice, how release works, and which transportation fees to ask about before arranging care. Who Can Authorize Cremation and What Paperwork Is Needed? Learn who can authorize cremation, which documents a provider may need, and what to ask about signatures, permits, death certificates and family disputes. Can We Arrange Cremation and Services Online or by Phone? Learn what cremation arrangements you can make online or by phone, which documents you may need, and what to verify before signing or paying. How and When Will We Receive the Ashes? Learn what affects the return of ashes after cremation, how pickup and shipping work, and what to confirm with your provider before making plans.