Information Needed when Arranging a Funeral
Vital Statistics
- Full name and complete address
- How long at current/former residence(s)
- Occupation, job title, nature of work, and history
- Location of workplace
- Social security number
- Veteran's serial number
- Date and place of service, date of discharge
- Date of birth
- Place of birth
- Family origin
- Father's name
- Mother's maiden name
- Educational attainment
Paperwork and Documents to Collect
- Will
- Birth certificate
- Social security card
- Marriage license
- Military discharge
- Insurance policies (life, health, accident, property, auto)
- Bank books
- Stocks and bonds
- Property deed
- Cemetery deed
- Auto titles
- Tax returns, receipts, and cancelled checks
Decisions to Make
- Exact location of burial/disposition
- Location of service
- Casket
- Outer burial container
- Items for memento display
- Clothing and jewelry for deceased
- Service type (religious, fraternal, military)
- Selection of scripture and readings (poems, etc.)
- Clergy to officiate
- Register book, memorial/prayer cards
- Casketbearers
- Floral arrangements
- Music selections
- Transportation for family and guests, including funeral procession lineup
