Losing someone you love is one of the most difficult moments in life. When a death occurs at home in Illinois, knowing what to do — and in what order — can help your family navigate the first hours with as much calm as possible.
Step 1: Take a Moment
There is no need to rush. A death at home is not an emergency requiring an immediate 911 dispatch in most cases. Take a breath and know that you have time to make calls thoughtfully.
Step 2: Call 911 If Required
If the death was unexpected, sudden, or the result of an accident or suspected foul play, call 911. Law enforcement and the medical examiner may need to be involved before the body can be moved. If the death was expected — such as a loved one in hospice care or under a physician’s care for a terminal illness — you typically do not need to call 911. Instead, call your hospice provider or attending physician.
Step 3: Notify the Physician or Hospice
If your loved one was under hospice care, call the hospice agency immediately. The hospice nurse will come to pronounce the death and begin paperwork. If no hospice was involved, contact the primary physician to obtain a death pronouncement.
Step 4: Call a Cremation Provider
Once the death has been pronounced, call Trusted Cremations at (847) 404-2016. We are available 24/7. We will arrive and transfer your loved one with dignity. You do not need to decide on all arrangements immediately.
Step 5: Notify Close Family and Friends
Notify immediate family members personally before any public announcements. This ensures those closest to your loved one hear the news directly from you.
Step 6: Gather Important Documents
Begin locating: the will and any pre-arranged cremation documents, Social Security card, life insurance policies, bank account information, marriage certificate, and military discharge papers (DD-214) if a veteran.
Step 7: Obtain Death Certificates
You will need multiple certified copies for insurance claims, bank accounts, and estate proceedings. Trusted Cremations includes ten (10) certified copies with every cremation package.
Step 8: Make Final Arrangements
Choose between our Traditional Cremation Package ($1,300) or Flameless Cremation Package ($1,700). Most arrangements can be completed by phone and email.
Step 9: Notify Organizations
Notify the Social Security Administration, pension providers, insurance companies, banks, the employer if applicable, and the U.S. Postal Service.
Step 10: Plan a Memorial When Ready
There is no required timeline. Many families hold a celebration of life after receiving the cremated remains — when and where it feels right.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if my loved one dies late at night in Illinois?
Call Trusted Cremations at (847) 404-2016. We are available 24/7 and will respond promptly, regardless of the hour.
Do I need a funeral director if someone dies at home?
Yes. In Illinois, you are required to use a licensed funeral director or cremation establishment to transport and dispose of human remains. Trusted Cremations is fully licensed.
We Are Here for You
Call us at (847) 404-2016 any time. 1821 Walden Office Square, Suite #400, Schaumburg, IL 60173.