Whether you are planning your own final arrangements or handling the task for a loved one who has passed away, it’s an emotional process. When emotions run high, it can be difficult to remember everything you need to do to ensure the process runs smoothly. You can make the process much easier by gathering the appropriate documents. Bring these documents with you to the funeral home, so you can move through the planning process as easy as possible. 

Cemetery Paperwork

People often make cemetery arrangements before death. After making arrangements, they are provided with paperwork that must go to the funeral home. Bring the paperwork to the funeral home, so the staff will know where the burial will take place. 

Funeral Prearrangement Paperwork

If you are planning a funeral for a loved one who has passed, see if he or she made funeral prearrangements. If so, bring that paperwork to the funeral home with you. The funeral staff will honor your loved one’s wishes based on the prearrangements. While this makes it easier for those left behind, do not worry if your loved one didn’t make prearrangements. The staff will guide you through the process as you honor your loved one’s final wishes. 

Documents for the Death Certificate

The funeral home will assist in the creation of a death certificate that will go to the physician and then the health department. You will need the loved one’s full name, place and date of birth, and address for the death certificate. The funeral home may also need the:

• Social Security Number
• Marital Status
• Name of Surviving Spouse, If Applicable
• Mother and Father’s Name
• Highest Level of Education
• Occupation
• Place of Death
• Military Discharge Papers, If Applicable

If you don’t have this information on hand, look for documents. For instance, your loved one’s birth certificate and social security card will be useful. 

Obituary Information

You might have documents and information you would like to include in the obituary. You can bring this with you when meeting with the staff at the local funeral home. Some people like to be involved in the obituary writing process, even if it’s their own obituary. This gives them some control and allows them to personalize the notice. They often bring items in to help with the process.

If you don’t have any documents or information, do not worry. The funeral home staff will take special care to ensure that the obituary is up to your specifications. Funeral home staff members are skilled at crafting obituaries that pay tribute to loved ones. 

Get Help When Planning a Funeral 

Planning a funeral might seem overwhelming, but you can get the help you need. Start by gathering all the necessary documents. Then, give Wyuka a call. Our staff is trained to help people make these types of arrangements. We work hard to keep everyone as comfortable and informed as possible, whether you’re planning your own arrangements or taking care of it for someone else.