Use this as a guide
Every funeral is different, but this checklist can help you keep track of the most common steps and decisions. Some items may not apply to your situation.
Important documents
- ✓Identity document of the deceased
- ✓Death notice or medical certificate of cause of death
- ✓Death certificate once issued
- ✓Burial order where applicable
- ✓Funeral policy or insurance documents
- ✓Will or estate documents if available
- ✓Marriage certificate if relevant
Funeral provider
- ✓Choose a funeral provider
- ✓Request a written quote
- ✓Confirm what is included and excluded
- ✓Confirm transport arrangements
- ✓Ask who will assist with documentation
- ✓Confirm payment terms
Service decisions
- ✓Decide between burial or cremation
- ✓Choose the date and time
- ✓Choose the venue
- ✓Select a coffin, casket or urn
- ✓Choose readings, music or prayers
- ✓Decide who will speak at the service
- ✓Arrange printed programmes if needed
Family and guests
- ✓Notify close family and friends
- ✓Share service details
- ✓Arrange transport where needed
- ✓Consider accommodation for travelling family
- ✓Confirm catering requirements
- ✓Arrange flowers or décor if desired
Costs and payments
- ✓Set a realistic budget
- ✓Compare provider quotes where possible
- ✓Check funeral policy benefits
- ✓Confirm cemetery or crematorium fees
- ✓Track additional costs such as catering and transport
- ✓Keep receipts and important records
After the funeral
- ✓Collect final documents and receipts
- ✓Follow up on insurance or policy claims
- ✓Begin estate-related administration if needed
- ✓Arrange a tombstone or memorial if desired
- ✓Send thank-you messages where appropriate
- ✓Keep important documents safely stored
Funeral Insights tip
Do not feel pressured to decide everything at once. Start with the urgent items: documentation, choosing a provider, transport, burial or cremation arrangements, and confirming the service details.