Bereavement Checklist: The First Month After Loss

The first month after a bereavement can feel overwhelming. Alongside grief, there are often practical tasks that need attention, from registering the death to managing financial and administrative matters.

This checklist provides a simple overview of some of the key tasks that may arise during the first few weeks after a loss.

Remember that every situation is different, and not all tasks will apply to every family.

The First Few Days

☐ Obtain confirmation of death

☐ Obtain the Medical Certificate of Cause of Death

☐ Inform close family members and friends

☐ Contact a funeral director if required

☐ Register the death

☐ Order certified copies of the death certificate

☐ Ask about the Tell Us Once service

Funeral Arrangements

☐ Check for any funeral wishes left by the deceased

☐ Decide on burial or cremation arrangements

☐ Confirm the funeral date, time and location

☐ Notify family and friends of funeral arrangements

☐ Arrange flowers, donations or tributes if desired

Financial and Administrative Tasks

☐ Locate the will

☐ Identify the executor or administrator

☐ Gather important financial documents

☐ Notify banks and building societies

☐ Contact pension providers

☐ Inform insurance companies

☐ Review mortgage, loan and credit agreements

Property and Household Matters

☐ Secure any property and valuables

☐ Check home insurance arrangements

☐ Notify utility providers where appropriate

☐ Redirect post if necessary

☐ Make arrangements for pets or dependants if applicable

Digital Accounts and Online Services

☐ Make a list of important online accounts

☐ Review email accounts and subscriptions

☐ Contact social media platforms if required

☐ Keep a record of digital services that may need to be closed or transferred

Probate and Estate Administration

☐ Determine whether probate may be required

☐ Begin gathering information about assets and liabilities

☐ Keep records of all correspondence and important documents

☐ Create a list of organisations that have been contacted

Looking After Yourself

☐ Accept help from family and friends where possible

☐ Take breaks when needed

☐ Stay hydrated and eat regularly

☐ Remember that not every task needs to be completed immediately

A Gentle Reminder

There is no perfect way to navigate the first month after a loss. Some tasks will feel urgent, while others can wait until you are ready.

Focus on what feels manageable today and remember that support is available if you need it.

If you would like a structured way to organise contacts, documents, financial information and key tasks, The First 30 Days After Loss organiser has been designed to help you keep everything in one place during the early weeks after bereavement.

This article is intended for general information only and does not constitute legal advice.