If you’re considering a Prepaid Cremation with Bare, you probably want to make sure all your questions are answered, and all possible circumstances are covered.

One question we frequently get asked is what happens if you pass away interstate, whether that’s when travelling or because you have moved there. This article endeavours to answer all your questions. 

Steps to take if someone dies when they are interstate.

1. Immediate actions.

When a person passes away interstate, the first step is to contact the local authorities in the state where the death occurred. They will confirm the death and issue a death certificate, which is essential for subsequent arrangements.

If someone passes away alone without immediate family or friends nearby, the authorities will take charge of the body and attempt to locate next of kin. The state or territory will handle the arrangements if no relatives are found.

2. Engage a funeral director.

Upon confirmation of the death, engaging a reputable funeral director in the state where the person passed away is essential. The funeral director will assist in transporting the deceased's remains and organising the funeral.

If Bare is the preferred funeral director, either from a Prepaid Cremation Plan or general funeral wishes, please contact us on 1800 071 176. Our team will help coordinate the cremation in that state, or help explore options for transport back to the home state, 

3. Registering the death.

The funeral director will guide you through the process of registering the death with the relevant state's registry of births, deaths, and marriages. It's important to complete this step promptly.

4. Transferring the deceased.

If the family wishes to hold the funeral in another state, a permit for the transportation of the body will be required. The funeral director can assist in obtaining the necessary permits.

5. Organising the funeral.

Once the deceased's remains are in the desired state, you can proceed with organising the funeral or memorial service. Bare can assist in arranging a direct cremation if it aligns with the wishes of the deceased or their family. There’s also the option of adding a service to the Bare Cremation arrangement. Our funeral team can help arrange and conduct memorial or funerals. To find out more, visit our Bare website here, or call 1800 071 176.

Learn more about Bare Funeral Services

6. Understanding legal requirements.

Dealing with a death interstate involves complying with various legal requirements, which may vary between states. Familiarise yourself with the specific laws of the state where the person passed away to ensure compliance.

7. Handling the estate.

If the deceased had assets in different states, you may need to deal with multiple state probate offices. Seeking legal advice is advisable to ensure a smooth process of handling the deceased's estate. Our legal team can work with you to handle and distribute the estate. Head here to learn more. 

Preparing for moving or travelling interstate.

If you are planning for interstate travel, inform family or friends about your travel plans and share essential documents and emergency contact details.

When planning a move, ensure that you contact Bare to let us know, as prices vary between regions and there may be a small increase or decrease in the cost of your prepaid plan. 

What happens with the prepaid cremation funds?

If you are travelling within Australia when death occurs, your family will need to contact us immediately, so that we can make the necessary arrangements to assist with your safe transfer back to your home state. Some additional costs for transport may be required. 

We may also be able to perform the cremation in the state where the person passed away, however that is up to the family to decide. 

Final thoughts on passing away in another state.

If you are planning any travel, it’s always best to sit down with your loved ones and next of kin to go over your funeral wishes, the location of your will, and any other important documents. 

If you plan on moving interstate and have a Prepaid Cremation with Bare, please contact us so we can adjust your details accordingly, so we have the most relevant information for when the time comes.

If you have further questions, please do not hesitate to give our friendly team a call on 1800 202 901.