First steps after a death
What needs to happen first
The first step depends on where and under what circumstances the person died. We then clarify the remaining order with you.
If someone has died at home
For an expected death at home, notify the family doctor, their deputy or the emergency doctor. In the event of an accident or extraordinary death, the police are responsible.
Once the medical death certificate has been issued, you can call Nisio AG. We explain which details we need and what happens next.
- Notify the family doctor or emergency doctor
- Inform the police after an accident or extraordinary death
- Wait for the medical death certificate
- Contact Nisio AG
Report the death
A death must be reported to the civil registry office at the place of death within two days. If a person dies in hospital or a care home, the institution usually makes this report.
For a private report, the original medical death certificate and, depending on the situation, additional civil-status documents are required. The responsible civil registry office provides binding information.
- Civil registry office at the place of death
- Original medical death certificate
- Institutional reporting form, if available
- Further documents as advised by the civil registry office
Coordinate the funeral and appointments
Nisio AG informs the funeral office of the municipality of residence and, if requested, coordinates the next appointments with the responsible offices.
The place and time of the ceremony and burial are agreed with the municipality, cemetery and other parties. Relatives clarify estate and inventory matters directly with the responsible municipality.
- Notify the municipality of residence
- Coordinate appointments with authorities
- Clarify place and time of burial
- Discuss estate and inventory with the municipality
Inform other organisations
Depending on the situation, the employer, landlord, post office, health insurer, banks, executor, life insurers and pension fund should also be notified.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Do I have to decide everything immediately?
No. The medical death certificate, notification and first contact come first. The funeral type, ceremony and personal details can be discussed afterwards.
Which documents are important for the civil registry office?
The original medical death certificate is required. Further documents depend on the personal situation; the responsible civil registry office provides binding information.