Promisedland Casket
The days and weeks after losing a loved one involve far more than the funeral itself. Beyond the immediate arrangements, families often need to notify various organisations and slowly work through the deceased's affairs.
This checklist brings together the wider set of tasks that typically follow a death in Singapore, beyond the first 24 hours.
If you have not yet completed the most urgent steps, start with our guide on what to do in the first 24 hours after a death.
This guide continues from our complete first 24 hours after a death guide -- covering the tasks that follow once the essential first steps are complete.
Recap
What Should Already Be Done
By this point, most families will have confirmed the death, informed immediate relatives, located key identification documents and contacted a funeral director.
If any of these steps are still outstanding, our guide on what to do in the first 24 hours after a death covers them in detail.
Next stage
Move Into Funeral Planning
Once the immediate steps are handled, the family can begin planning the service itself, including the venue, religious arrangements and Singapore casket selection.
Our guide on how to plan a funeral in Singapore walks through this process step by step.
Ongoing task
Notify the Relevant Organisations
Over the following days and weeks, several organisations will typically need to be informed of the death.
- The deceased's bank and any joint account holders
- Insurance providers
- Employer or former employer
- Utility and telecommunications providers
- Government agencies, where relevant to the deceased's records
- Subscriptions, memberships and recurring services
It can help to keep a running list of who has been informed, as this process is often spread out over several weeks.
Ongoing task
Manage the Deceased's Belongings
Continue to keep personal belongings, devices and valuables secure. Avoid disposing of items or making decisions about their distribution until the family has had time to review them together.
Our guide on what to do in the first 24 hours after a death lists the categories of belongings worth securing early.
Later stage
Begin Estate Administration Where Needed
Depending on whether the deceased left a valid will, the appropriate family member may need to apply for a Grant of Probate or Letters of Administration before certain assets can be administered.
This process usually takes place over several weeks and does not need to be rushed during the first days after the funeral.
Need Guidance Through This Process?
Our funeral team can point you toward the right resources and support as your family works through these next steps.
Ongoing care
Continue Supporting the Family
Grief does not end after the funeral. Family members should continue checking in on one another in the weeks and months that follow.
Our guide on bereavement support in Singapore outlines practical ways to support yourself and others through this period.
Practical reference
Complete Checklist
Common questions
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does this whole process usually take?
The funeral itself is usually arranged within a few days, but notifications and estate matters can take several weeks or longer, depending on the complexity of the deceased's affairs.
Do I need to notify every organisation myself?
You may be able to share responsibilities with other family members. Keeping a simple list of who has been contacted helps avoid duplicated effort.
What if the deceased did not leave a will?
The appropriate family member may need to apply for Letters of Administration in order to administer the estate.
Is it normal to still feel overwhelmed weeks later?
Yes. Grief affects people differently and does not follow a fixed timeline. Read our guide on bereavement support in Singapore for further guidance.
Who can I speak to for support?
Visit our contact page to reach the Promisedland Casket funeral team for guidance at any stage.
Final guidance
Take It One Task at a Time
The tasks that follow a death often stretch across several weeks. There is no need to complete everything at once. Work through this checklist gradually, and lean on family, friends and your funeral director for support along the way.
Read our complete first 24 hours after a death guide or contact our funeral directors for further assistance.
Continue Your Planning
What to Do in the First 24 Hours After a Death
The complete step-by-step guide covering every stage of the first day after a loss.
Read article
Bereavement Support in Singapore
Practical ways to support yourself and family members through grief.
Read article
Grant of Probate in Singapore
Understand the purpose of probate and why an executor may need it.
Read articleCompassionate Funeral Support When Your Family Needs It
Speak with our funeral team for guidance on the immediate next steps, funeral arrangements and wake planning.