What to Do Immediately After Someone Dies at Home in Florida
The first call depends on whether the death was expected and supported by hospice.
Start here
If the death was expected and the person was on hospice, call the hospice’s 24/7 number and do not call 911 unless instructed. If the death was unexpected, unattended, suspicious, or you are unsure, call 911.
What to have in front of you
- The notice, bill, decision, or discharge paperwork connected to the problem
- The person’s full name, date of birth, address, insurance information, and identification
- A short timeline with dates, names, phone calls, and what changed
- Copies of medical, school, financial, or care records that directly support the request
What to say when someone answers
“The person has died at home. This was [expected on hospice / unexpected]. Please tell me the next step and who is authorized to pronounce and arrange removal.”
Small but useful: Write down the person’s name, the date, the exact next step, and when you should call again.
Do this in order
- 1
Do not move the body or remove medical devices when the death is unexpected or may require investigation.
- 2
Call hospice for an expected hospice death; call 911 for an unexpected death or immediate uncertainty.
- 3
Locate identification, advance directives, funeral or cremation plans, veteran information, and the legal decision-maker.
- 4
Contact the chosen funeral home only after hospice, law enforcement, or the medical examiner clears removal.
What happens next
Hospice or emergency authorities document the death and explain the next steps. The funeral home coordinates transport and usually helps obtain certified death certificates.
If they say “we’ll put you on the list”
If no funeral home was chosen, ask for time to compare direct-cremation or burial prices. Do not sign a contract while unsure who has legal authority.
Official sources
Checked August 5, 2026. Programs, hours, funding, and enrollment lists can change. Confirm details directly before relying on them.