What to Do When Someone Dies in Florida

A gentle step-by-step guide for families

When someone you love dies, the first hours can feel disorienting. You may wonder who to call, what must happen today, and what can wait until tomorrow.

Most importantly, you don’t have to solve everything at once. Instead, use this guide to take one clear step at a time.

First — take a breath

Right now, you can slow down. In fact, you usually do not need to sign anything immediately, and you do not need to leave home right away.

Focus on safety first, then lean on people you trust. After that, you can begin the practical steps with more clarity.

Step 1: Determine where the death occurred

If death occurred at home (not under hospice)

Call 911 or local law enforcement so a medical professional can pronounce death. This does not mean anyone is in trouble; rather, Florida requires an official pronouncement.

Once the pronouncement is complete, you can contact the cremation provider you choose.

If your loved one was under hospice care

Call the hospice nurse first. Hospice will come to the home, pronounce death, and guide you through the next steps.

Then, you can contact your chosen cremation provider when you feel ready.

If death occurred in a hospital or care facility

The staff will handle the pronouncement and coordinate the release process. Meanwhile, you can call your chosen cremation provider at any time — even in the middle of the night.

Step 2: Choose a cremation provider you trust

You are not required to use a provider suggested by a hospital, hospice, or care facility. Instead, in Florida, you always have the right to choose.

Many families prefer cremation services that explain everything clearly, allow arrangements from home, and treat their loved one with dignity. Additionally, they often look for a team that avoids pressure and gives them space to decide.

At Going Home Cremations, we guide families through every step with care — never rushed, never confusing.

Step 3: Make arrangements (this can usually be done by phone)

In most Florida counties, families can complete cremation arrangements by phone or email. As a result, you can often handle everything from the comfort of home.

You do not need to visit a funeral home unless you want to.

Information commonly needed includes:

• Full legal name of the deceased
• Date and place of birth
• Social Security number (if available)
• Next of kin information

If you don’t have every detail right away, that’s okay. We can help you gather what’s missing after the immediate steps are complete.

Step 4: Cremation and care of your loved one

After the legal authorization is signed, the cremation provider can arrange transportation respectfully. Then, the cremation takes place according to Florida requirements, and the cremated remains are returned to the family.

Throughout the process, you can ask questions at any point. In other words, if something feels unclear, you should never hesitate to reach out.

Step 5: Receiving the cremated remains

After cremation, you can pick up the urn, request delivery, or plan a memorial later. Likewise, you can choose a private remembrance on your own timeline.

There is no “right” schedule for grief. Instead, take the time you need.

Common questions families ask

How long does cremation take in Florida?

Typically, cremation takes about 7–10 days, although timing can vary based on paperwork and county requirements.

Do I need to pay everything immediately?

No. We explain costs clearly and discuss options upfront, so you can make decisions with confidence.

Can arrangements be made without leaving home?

Yes — most families complete everything remotely by phone and email. Therefore, you can stay with family and focus on what matters most.

What if I’m not sure what my loved one wanted?

That’s very common. We will walk you through the options gently, so you can choose what feels right for your family.

You are not alone

Losing someone can feel heavy and surreal. However, you deserve kindness, clarity, and respect — not pressure.

Going Home Cremations is honored to help families throughout Pinellas County, Sarasota County, and surrounding Florida communities with compassionate, dignified cremation services.

If you need guidance — even if you simply feel unsure what to do next — we are here to help.

What To Do When Someone Dies in Florida … Step-by-step guidance for families