Planning Checklist

Here is a list of documents you need to obtain before planning your arrangements. Whether you’re planning for yourself or assisting a loved one, this comprehensive checklist guarantees that no detail will be overlooked.

  • Vital statistics (including)
    • Name of father, place of birth, year
    • Mother’s maiden name, place of birth, year
    • Education – elementary, high school, college, graduate school
  • Social Security number
  • Veteran information
    • Military service
    • Branch rank
    • Date of enlistment
    • Date of discharge
    • Name(s) of war/conflict(s) toured
    • Serial number
  • Affiliations
    • Fraternal, service, and union memberships
    • Special recognitions
  • Persons to contact
    • Children, relatives and friends to notify
  • Funeral preferences
    • Preferred clergy/celebrant
    • Names of pallbearers and honorary pallbearers
    • Preferred music, Bible verses, or poetry
    • Preferred clothing or jewelry
    • Burial property information
    • Special instructions
  • Location of important documents and passwords