What to Do When a Loved One Passes Away in Florida

Losing someone you love is one of the hardest experiences a person can face. In the immediate hours after a death, it can be difficult to know what to do first. This guide is written for families in Sarasota, Bradenton, and the surrounding areas of Manatee and Sarasota County — to help you take things one step at a time.

Step 1: Notify the Appropriate Authorities

What you do first depends on where and how your loved one passed.

• If the death occurred under hospice care: Contact the hospice provider immediately. Hospice staff are trained to guide families through this moment and will notify the appropriate authorities on your behalf.
• If the death was unexpected at home: Call 911. A police officer and medical examiner may be dispatched depending on the circumstances. Do not move your loved one before authorities arrive.
• If the death occurred in a hospital, nursing home, or assisted living facility: The facility staff will handle the immediate notifications. Ask to speak with a social worker or patient advocate — they are there to help you.

Step 2: Contact a Crematory or Funeral Home

Once authorities have been notified, your next call is to a crematory or funeral home. They will arrange for the transfer of your loved one into their care. You do not need to have all the details figured out before making this call — the crematory will walk you through everything.

At Good Earth Crematory, we are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, including holidays. You can reach us at (941) 748-7756 or begin arrangements online.

Florida law requires a minimum 48-hour waiting period before cremation can take place. This time is used to complete necessary paperwork and obtain proper authorization.

Step 3: Notify Close Family and Friends

Once your loved one is in professional care, take time to notify immediate family members. There is no single right order — do what feels manageable. If you have other family members nearby, ask for their help with phone calls and notifications.

Step 4: Gather Important Documents

In the days following, you will need access to certain documents. Begin locating:

• Social Security card and number
• Birth certificate
• Marriage certificate (if applicable)
• Military discharge papers (DD-214, if applicable)
• Life insurance policies
• Will or estate planning documents
• Any pre-arranged funeral or cremation plans

Step 5: Obtain Death Certificates

You will need certified copies of the death certificate to handle financial, legal, and administrative matters. Common uses include closing bank accounts, claiming life insurance, notifying the Social Security Administration, and transferring property.

We will obtain certified death certificates on your behalf as part of the arrangement process. We will also help you determine how many copies you are likely to need based on your situation.

Step 6: Notify Government Agencies and Financial Institutions

In the weeks following the death, you will need to notify:

• Social Security Administration — to stop benefit payments and, if applicable, claim a survivor's benefit
• Banks and financial institutions — to close or transfer accounts
• Insurance companies — to file life insurance claims
• The DMV — to cancel or transfer vehicle registration
• The post office — to forward or stop mail
• Medicare and Medicaid — if applicable
• Pension or retirement plan administrators

Step 7: Plan a Memorial When You're Ready

Direct cremation and a meaningful memorial are not mutually exclusive. Many families choose to hold a celebration of life, a private gathering, or a scattering ceremony weeks or even months after the cremation — when the time feels right and family can gather together.

There is no deadline. Take the time you need.

You Don't Have to Figure It All Out at Once

The most important thing to know is that you don't have to navigate this alone. We are here to guide your family through every step with patience and compassion. There are no rushed decisions and no pressure.

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