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