After Funeral Care

In the days and weeks after a funeral, there are often a number of practical matters to take care of. This can feel like a lot to manage at an already difficult time.

Byrne’s Funeral Directors, Crablane are available to offer guidance and support to families following the funeral. While every situation is different, the information below outlines some of the common steps that may need attention.

Registering the Death

If the death has not already been registered, this should be completed as soon as possible.

You will need the Death Notification Form provided by the doctor in order to register the death with the Civil Registration Service. Once registered, you can obtain copies of the death certificate, which may be required when dealing with financial and legal matters.

Financial and Legal Matters

Following a death, there may be a number of financial and administrative matters to address.

These can include:

• notifying banks and financial institutions
• contacting insurance providers
• dealing with pensions or social welfare payments
• managing household bills and accounts

It can be helpful to gather important documents such as identification, PPS numbers and any relevant account details before beginning this process.

Department of Social Protection

You may need to notify the Department of Social Protection and check whether any payments or supports apply.

In some cases, there may be assistance available towards funeral costs, depending on the circumstances.

Returning Personal Belongings

If the person died in a hospital or nursing home, you may need to arrange the collection of personal belongings.

Staff will usually advise you on when these items can be collected.

The Will and Estate

If a will has been made, the Executor named in the will is responsible for administering the estate.

If there is no will, the estate will be dealt with under the rules of intestacy.

You may wish to seek legal advice to guide you through this process, particularly if the estate is complex.

Grave Care and Memorials

If burial has taken place, the grave may settle in the weeks following the funeral. This is normal, particularly in wet weather.

In time, families may choose to arrange a headstone or memorial. This is usually done several months after the funeral.

If you are considering this, it can be helpful to visit local graveyards to see what styles you prefer.

Ashes Following Cremation

If cremation has taken place, you may need to decide what to do with the ashes.

Options can include:

• keeping the ashes at home
• placing them in a family grave
• scattering them in a suitable location

If you are considering scattering ashes in a public place, it is advisable to check local guidelines in advance.

Taking Things One Step at a Time

There is no need to deal with everything at once. Many of these tasks can be addressed gradually over time.

If you are unsure about any aspect of what needs to be done, Byrne’s Funeral Directors are available to provide guidance.