Right after it happens
Do I need to be there when the body is picked up?
Short answer
No. Someone should be accessible by phone, but you do not have to be present. Make sure the funeral home has access to the location and that you have confirmed the pickup in writing or by phone.
What this usually means
No. Someone should be accessible by phone, but you do not have to be present. Make sure the funeral home has access to the location and that you have confirmed the pickup in writing or by phone.
What to do next
- Start the PathAfter checklist for situation-aware first steps.
- Find California county phone numbers for coroner, vital records, and local offices.
- Open the First 72 Hours Call Log before making calls.
- Open the Documents to Find Checklist when you are ready for paperwork.