What to do when a person dies and you are the next of kin
Trusts and Estates
When a family member dies and you are the next of kin
A short guide for the next of kin, when a family member passes away.
Should a person die at home, call the Undertaker
If a person dies in hospital, the hospital will assist with the arrangements like the Undertaker and the medical certificate
Should a person die of unnatural causes, inform the police – obtain information as to whom the undertaker can contact
Inform the other next of kin, close friends
Make an appointment with the Undertaker - most Undertakers are equipped to give valuable assistance and advice relating to many of the immediate arrangements.
Start with funeral arrangements including the Minister, which kind of service, the refreshments etc
The Undertaker will obtain the medical certificate, register the Death with the Department of Home Affairs and start with the funeral arrangements
Obtain the original death certificate from the funeral home and make sure that all details on the death certificate are correct – if not, revert to the funeral home to amend accordingly
Inform the Executor of the death
Plan for the intake of the estate by obtaining the list of required documents
As soon as documents are ready, make an appointment with the estate administrator to take in the estate and discuss all relevant issues and the way forward: