For now
Get an official pronouncement of death
This depends on where they were when they passed. In a hospital, hospice facility, or nursing home, staff will handle it and give you the paperwork. At home under hospice care, call the hospice nurse. At home without hospice, call 911. Nothing else can move forward without an official pronouncement, so this comes first.
What you'll need
- The hospice or care provider's phone number, if they had one
Good to know
Ask what happens next: If they passed at home without hospice, EMTs may transport them or call the medical examiner. Ask the 911 dispatcher what happens next in your area so you know what to expect.
Need help with this step?
Someone on our team can talk through this step with you, answer questions, and help you figure out what applies.
Free · Call or text 301-539-9175