Preparing Arrangements
Families are often caught off guard by what goes into planning a goodbye in Toronto. At A Basic Service we believe planning doesn't have to add to the emotional stress of the moment — even if you're completely ill-prepared to handle the death. A little guidance goes a long way. If you have recently experienced a loss, our director will guide you through this deeply personal process.
Notifying Family Members
If you are not up to the task, enlist the help of a relative, neighbour or colleague. The medium you choose to deliver the news is entirely up to you and you should feel comfortable with it no matter the choice. One thing remains the same no matter how you choose to notify friends and family: you want the news to be delivered with kindness and understanding — your friends and family members will often look back on this moment.
Meeting with the Director
It is a good idea to be in touch with a director sooner rather than later. Whether you choose to contact one of our professionals or you have someone else in mind, you'll receive the following assistance:
Your Obligations After a Loss
It can be easy to overlook the everyday matters you'll need to attend to after a person dies. Do your best to get the following affairs in order:
If you are not up to the task, enlist the help of a relative, neighbour or colleague. The medium you choose to deliver the news is entirely up to you and you should feel comfortable with it no matter the choice. One thing remains the same no matter how you choose to notify friends and family: you want the news to be delivered with kindness and understanding — your friends and family members will often look back on this moment.
Meeting with the Director
It is a good idea to be in touch with a director sooner rather than later. Whether you choose to contact one of our professionals or you have someone else in mind, you'll receive the following assistance:
- Transportation of the body
- A death certificate
- A casket or container
- Preparation and publishing of the press notice
- Direction to other resources
Your Obligations After a Loss
It can be easy to overlook the everyday matters you'll need to attend to after a person dies. Do your best to get the following affairs in order:
- Find the Will – You must have the original, the court will not accept a copy.
- Locate Assets and Determine Liabilities – You will need these documents to manage upcoming transactions as well as notify the applicable providers and stakeholders.
- Contact their Employer – Go over insurance, vacation pay and benefits.
- Pay the Bills – Keep an eye on the mail box. Chances are you will be receiving information about an account or loan the deceased had. There may be an outstanding utility bill, credit card balance, mortgage payment or loan. Ensure nothing is allowed to slip by you and into collections.
- File a Tax Return – Eventually an income tax return will need be filed. It may be wise to seek the help of an accountant in this matter.
- Consult a Lawyer – We recommend seeking the help of a law firm with a proven track record handling wills and estates. Chances are they can help you clear things up quickly — even when things get really complex.
