Right after it happens
What if I don't know if they wanted to be cremated or buried?
Short answer
Look for a will, trust, pre-need funeral contract, or any written instructions. Ask close family members. If you cannot find anything, the legal next of kin makes the decision. You are allowed to make the call without documentation if you are next…
What this usually means
Look for a will, trust, pre-need funeral contract, or any written instructions. Ask close family members. If you cannot find anything, the legal next of kin makes the decision. You are allowed to make the call without documentation if you are next of kin.
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.