The first 72 hours

A step-by-step guide to what needs to happen, grouped by how urgent it is. Your progress is saved on this device only.

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Get the medical certificate of cause of deathRequired by law
A doctor or hospital must complete this before the body can be moved or a death notice can be filed.
Basis: Births and Deaths Registration Act 51 of 1992
Tip: If the death happened at home and was unexpected, the police and a district surgeon may need to be involved first.
Contact a funeral home to collect the body
Choose a funeral home to collect and care for the deceased. You do not have to decide on final arrangements yet.
Tip: Get a written quote before you agree to collection if you have time — some homes add collection fees later.
Notify close family
Let immediate family know so they can be involved in early decisions about the funeral.

Register the death at Home AffairsRequired by law
Report the death and obtain the official death notice and death certificate. This is usually handled with the funeral home's help.
Basis: Births and Deaths Registration Act 51 of 1992
Tip: Bring the deceased's ID book/card and the medical certificate of cause of death.
Find any funeral policy or insurance documents
Locate policy numbers so you know what cover is available and can inform the funeral home.
Tip: Check bank statements for recurring "funeral cover" or "life cover" debit orders if you can't find paperwork.

Get written quotes from at least two funeral homes
Compare what is included, not just the headline price. Ask for an itemised breakdown.
Tip: Use Farewell's compare tool to see prices side by side before you commit.
Understand what is required vs optional
Some items (like the death notice and a coffin) are required. Others (embalming, viewing rooms, elaborate coffins) are optional upsells.
Tip: Embalming is not required by law unless the body is crossing provincial borders.
Decide on burial or cremation
This affects cost, timing, and which service providers you need.

Notify the deceased's employer
Inform HR or payroll — this affects final salary, UIF, pension, and group life claims.
Tip: Ask about any employer-provided group funeral or life cover.
Notify the deceased's bank(s)
Banks will freeze personal accounts once notified, which protects the estate from fraud.
Tip: Keep a record of who you notified and when, for the executor.

Report the estate to the Master of the High CourtRequired by law
Required if the deceased left assets, to appoint an executor and begin winding up the estate.
Basis: Administration of Estates Act 66 of 1965
Tip: Estates under a certain value can use the simplified process — ask the Master's office which applies.