What Needs To Be Arranged After The Loss Of A Loved One?

(Guest Author) Life after loss is a topic that we normally do not tend to or like to think about too much. As such, the practical concerns that come with a death in the family can be something of a surprise. In many cases, you may not feel like doing much in the way of organisation at all. However, in order to pay the proper respects that your loved one deserves, you need to. To that end, here are some of the main considerations you need to make.

A silhouette of a gravestone in a graveyard. Stock image

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The Necessary Paperwork

Dealing with bureaucracy is far from something any of us want to do after a death. However, we do have to register the death of a loved one within a matter of days. This will give us the certificate for a burial that can then be given to funeral directors or crematorium directors. A formal funeral cannot be arranged until this piece of paper is given so it’s best to try and get it sooner rather than later.

The Funeral Costs

One of the main payments made in the event of a loss goes to the services provided by a funeral director. These directors do all manner of arrangements, including working with local clergy (if wanted), florists, cemetery staff, and crematorium. They can also take care of any additional paperwork needs, offer a coffin or casket, and provide a hearse, drivers, and coffin bearers if need be. It is worth noting that you can find any one of these services yourself, but people tend to pay funeral directors for the convenience they offer.

Headstones and Memorials

Often, a market is left either at the place of the grave or elsewhere to pay respects to the lost. In the case of a traditional burial, then these usually come in the form of headstones which you have to acquire. However, others may simply prefer to keep or place an urn, or to arrange for a plaque to be erected, instead.

Arranging The Service

It is not always the case, but many people like to also plan a memorial service that can allow loved ones to say goodbye, or see a member of religious clergy to perform the rituals designed for the loss of a loved one. There are both religious and secular memorial services you can arrange. Fees have to be paid for both, typically.

Dealing With The Estate

If a lost loved one left behind an estate, be it money, shares, property, or other personal possessions, this is usually passed on. Either it is directed by a will or it follows the rules of intestacy, meaning it usually goes to the next closest relative. In most cases, an executor or administrator will take care of the estate. However, if none has been named, then a member of the family may have to step up and see that the estate is dealt with appropriately.

Dealing with loss, both emotionally and practically, is never easy. Hopefully, however, this guide helps you more easily identify what needs to be arranged so you can get it out of the way.

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