What to Do After a Death in California

Where to Start

In the days and weeks after a loss, there’s a surprising amount of work to do: certificates to order, accounts and agencies to notify and even a court process. If you’re figuring out what to do after a death in California, you’re not expected to know any of this already. Below you’ll find clear guides to the most common steps, along with official Alameda County and California resources, conveniently collected so you don’t have to search for them. Start with whatever is most pressing.

The information below is general guidance, not legal advice. Rules, fees and processing times can change, so confirm the details with the office listed or a licensed attorney.

Official Resources and Where to Turn

We have compiled a list of the offices and agencies East Bay families turn to most when settling an estate, so help is easy to find in one place. These are independent government and nonprofit resources, not part of our services. Reaching out to them is a routine, expected step.

Death Certificates and Vital Records

• Alameda County Clerk-Recorder: issues certified copies of death certificates for deaths recorded in the county. These can be ordered online, by mail or in person. Address: 1106 Madison ST, Oakland CA, (510) 272-6362.
• California Department of Public Health, Vital Records and Statistics Division: issues certified copies of death certificates for deaths recorded in California since July 1905. These can be ordered online, by mail or in person. Address: 1615 Capitol Ave., Sacramento, CA, (916) 445-2684.
• Contra Costa County Vital Registration: issues certified copies of death certificates recorded in the county. Apply in person, by mail or online. Address: 10 Douglas Drive, Ste #220, Martinez, CA, (925) 313-1126.
• Marin County: issues certified copies of death certificates recorded in the county. Apply in person, online or via mail. Address: 3501 Civic Center Drive, Suite 232, San Rafael CA, (415) 473-6092.

Estate and Probate

• Alameda County Superior Court, Self-Help Center: general guidance on probate and estate matters for county residents. Click here to learn more. 
• Contra Costa County Superior Court: general guidance on probate and estate matters for county residents. Click here to learn more.
• Marin County Public Administrator: general guidance on probate and estate matters for county residents. Click here to learn more.

Benefits and Reporting a Death:

• Social Security Administration: report a death and ask about survivor benefits. The funeral home may do this or you can call (800) 772-1213 or visit your county’s Social Security office. 
• U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs: report a death and ask about burial benefits. The VA advises you inform them as soon as possible after a veteran has died.

Legal Help

• Alameda County Bar Association Lawyer Referral Service: referrals to attorneys in Alameda County. 
• Bay Area Legal Aid: Legal assistance for those in the East Bay.

Not sure which office you need first? We can help you sort out where to begin. 

Continuing Guidance

For more than a century, Chapel of the Chimes has welcomed generations of Oakland families to a place designed with intention to honor life and legacy. That same care continues after the service, as we help families understand what comes next and find the resources they need. If you’re thinking about the future, preplanning is a thoughtful way to make those same decisions easier for the people you love.