What to do in case of acute death

The death of a loved one is always a shock and an emotionally overwhelming situation. That is why we have listed the most important immediate steps that you can focus on in order to be able to overcome this difficult situation.

The first steps

1. Call a doctor or emergency service (112)

The death of a person must be officially confirmed by a doctor. As soon as the death is confirmed, the attending physician issues the death certificate (or death certificate). This document serves as official proof of the person's death and is required for further steps.

2. Tell your loved ones

  • Tell your loved ones as quickly as possible and as personally as possible. A personal conversation is, of course, the best option.
  • When making a phone call, make sure that your interlocutor is not in a situation where he or she could put himself or others in danger. Otherwise, ask for a call back.
  • Get to the point quickly. Your counterpart will recognize from your voice that something bad has happened. Clearly state what happened (What? When? Where?).
  • Clarify next steps
    Ask if your relatives would like to see the deceased person again and let them know if, where and when the opportunity is available.
  • Clarify Who takes care of the funeral and call the funeral home.

3. Hire the funeral home

We will support you with all the steps that now follow. We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and will take care of the next steps.

Akuter Sterbefall Soforthilfe

What follows

4. Picking up the deceased person

We will arrange for collection immediately. If you or your family still need some time to say goodbye, please let us know. There is usually some time left, as deceased people must be picked up within 36 hours of death.

5. Registration of the death/death certificate

The death must be reported to the local registry office. We will also do that for you. For this purpose, we need the following documents from the deceased person, depending on their marital status:

  • Single: birth certificate
  • Married: birth certificate, marriage certificate
  • Divorced: birth certificate, marriage certificate and divorce decree
  • Widowed: birth certificate, marriage certificate, death certificate of the deceased partner

If documents can no longer be found, we can arrange them for you at the relevant registry offices.

6. Funeral planning

In a personal conversation, we will clarify with you what you would like for the funeral. Should it be an earth burial or cremation? Where should the deceased person's resting place be? What would you like for the party? We will then also coordinate with the desired cemetery for you.

7. Pension and termination of health insurance

After the death certificates have been issued, all cancellations can be made with them. The health insurance company and pension office will be informed by us. If you are entitled to a widow's or widower's pension, we will apply for the 3-month transitional pension (quarter of death) for you. If you need further assistance with cancellations, we are also here for you.

In 3 steps to your non-binding offer

You can make yourself a free offer here or simply give us a call. In any case, we will provide you with a non-binding consultation, discuss any questions you may have and how you would like your funeral to proceed.

What our customers say about us

Google Bewertung Memovida

Many thanks to the entire team for their sensitive and professional support during one of our most difficult hours. The dignity and respect with which you arranged my father's funeral was exceptional. It gave us comfort and made it a little easier to say goodbye.

Jeanett M.

We were overwhelmed by the patience and understanding that was shown to us during the planning phase. Each of our questions was answered with great care and attention, which helped us a lot during this confusing time.

Hanna F.

The celebration in memory of my mother was beautiful and reflected exactly the life she led. You've managed to tell their story with so much attention to detail. We are deeply grateful to you for that.

Francesca B.

I would like to thank you for the exceptional support you have provided to my family throughout the grief coping period. The way you guided us through the process was invaluable. Your compassion and professionalism have left a lasting impression.

Lea K.