It’s a fact that Filipinos are sentimental. We have a long list of funeral customs and traditions, and superstitious beliefs on top of those can and can’t-do’s during the wake and burial. Funerals are overwhelming to the bereaved. It is intense. But Filipinos’ sense of community and family makes this sorrowful occasion warm and full of love.
Then, the funeral is over. Friends and visitors who travel from all over the country (or the world, for some) go home. This is when the feeling of grief kicks in when the bereaved is alone and starting over a new normal.
This is why it is crucial for funeral companies’ customer services to be empathic when answering queries all the time. Completing the paperwork, bank inquiries and bills will be on top of the list to call and/visit. This is one of the most difficult and sensitive stages of grieving.
Filipinos are resilient. We don’t get over things easily, but we deal with it. Even those who are organized, they still do need help in organizing the funeral including the procurement of the documents. It is always good to keep all of your important documents in one place so when the time comes (may God forbids), your spouse or family will not have a hard time locating them.
For spouses and family members left behind, here is a checklist of documents to locate and file in a folder:
-
Birth certificate
-
Marriage certificate
-
Driver’s license
-
Passport and Identification Cards
-
Deeds and titles to real and personal properties
-
Will (if applicable, talk to the family lawyer)
-
Income tax forms (latest and if possible previous years)
-
Hospital Records
-
Employment records
-
Insurance documents – Life, Vehicle, Health, and Prepaid Funeral Plans.
The list is long but is it a start. Updating the spouse’s status is hard – even that single tick in a box from Married to Widow. Most of these documents are secured alone by the surviving partners. It will never be easy. Here are some ideas on how to help:
- Stay in touch. As a friend or a cousin, don’t stop calling (or messaging on Facebook). Stay involved and don’t leave the bereaved alone to complete the paperwork and necessary documents listed above. Unfortunately, the “Call me when you need anything” is easy to say, but don’t wait for that phone call from the bereaved, make the first move and check up on her/him. Don’t stop visiting. Help your family start a new normal. Help your family create a new routine.
- Take down notes on important dates. Social media helps us a lot, Facebook memory reminds us about birthdays and anniversaries. When these days pop up on your newsfeed, visit your friend. Be visible and personal. Don’t let the bereaved reminisce these memorable dates alone.
With just weeks after the death of a loved one, reality will be overwhelming after the flood of people has left. Do care and be a friend. Be there even when all you need to do is listen. Provide customer service even when all you can give is empathy.
What are the documents you need when someone passed away?
When someone passed away, you need to keep the hospital records as it may be required when getting the Death Certificate. You also need to get a Health Permit from the local health center, and burial permit. Lastly, you need to coordinate with the local government and ask for assistance during the funeral procession.
It may sound too much that’s why it is best to avail yourself a funeral service package as processing all the necessary documents and acquiring permits from the local government are already inclusive in the package. Moreover, getting a pre-need funeral service will allow you to plan ahead taking away all the burden from your family when the time comes.
Leave a Reply