Fill Out Your Standard Examiner Obituariy Form

Filling out the Standard Examiner obituary form can be an emotional task during a challenging time. However, there are common mistakes people make when completing this form that can lead to errors or delays in publication. Being aware of these pitfalls can provide some comfort and clarity.

One frequent error involves failing to include all necessary contact information. The form requests the name, address, and phone number of the person responsible for the obituary's cost. Without this crucial information, the obituary process may be delayed until the details are confirmed. Moreover, if a phone number is missing, quick communication regarding any required changes becomes nearly impossible.

Another mistake often made is neglecting to provide accurate dates. The obituaries require the date of death, birth date, and marriage date. If these dates are incorrect or inconsistent, it may cause confusion and misrepresentation of the deceased's life. Double-check the dates to ensure they are correct, as this helps honor the individual’s memory properly.

Some individuals forget to include the correct full name for the heading. The form specifies that the name in the heading should be the deceased's full name. Omitting middle names or initials can lead to an obituary that does not reflect the name as intended. When this happens, it may confuse friends and family members searching for the obituary.

In addition, the inclusion of a photo can sometimes be overlooked. The form asks whether a photo is to be included, yet some individuals may assume there is no need for one. Including a photograph adds a personal touch and creates a more memorable tribute. If choosing to include a photo, ensure it is appropriate and of good quality.

Another common issue arises with the formatting of the obituary. If the information is not organized logically or clearly presented, it can detract from the message intended to convey the life of the deceased. Consider following the sample given on the form closely to ensure clarity and ease of reading for those honoring the individual's memory.

Some people also mistakenly underestimate the cost, which is determined by the number of lines. It is essential to calculate the number of lines accurately, particularly when including additional lines for pictures or veteran flags. An unexpected financial burden can add stress at an already difficult time.

Not verifying information with family or friends can lead to inaccuracies. Obituaries often include various details about the deceased’s life, including relatives, military service, and personal interests. This information should be confirmed with family members or the funeral home to ensure accuracy and completeness.

Additionally, failing to submit the obituary on time is a common oversight. The Standard Examiner sets specific deadlines for different publication days. Missing these deadlines can delay when the obituary runs, which may not honor the family's wishes regarding timing.

Lastly, some forms are submitted without the necessary signatures. Without a signature from the responsible party, the obituary may not be processed. A signature provides both authorization and confirmation of the details provided in the form, ensuring the submission is legitimate and accountable.

By paying attention to these common mistakes when filling out the Standard Examiner obituary form, families can navigate this difficult process with greater ease. Ensuring that all details are accurate and complete honors the memory of the deceased while alleviating unnecessary stress during an already challenging time.

When submitting an obituary, various forms and documents may be required to ensure that all necessary information is collected and processed effectively. Below is a list of additional forms often used in conjunction with the Standard Examiner Obituary form.

• Death Certificate: This official document is issued by a medical professional or government authority and confirms the death of a person. It contains vital information such as the date, location, and cause of death, which may be necessary for publication and legal purposes.
• Funeral Service Contract: A contract between the family and the funeral home that outlines the services provided, costs, and any specific arrangements for the deceased. It helps ensure that the family’s wishes are met during the funeral process.
• Verification Form: This form is often required by the Standard-Examiner to confirm that the obituary is submitted by an authorized individual, such as a family member or the funeral home. It typically includes contact information and a signature.
• Personal Information Sheet: A document used to gather detailed personal information about the deceased, including family history, achievements, and personal anecdotes. This information can create a more personalized obituary.
• Publication Payment Authorization: This form authorizes the newspaper to charge the cost of the obituary to the individual's or the funeral home's account. It includes payment details and confirms the understanding of the publication fees involved.

Utilizing these forms in conjunction with the Standard Examiner Obituary form can streamline the process and ensure that all necessary information is accurately captured and submitted. Proper completion of these documents also facilitates effective communication between family members and the publication team.

Understanding the Standard Examiner Obituary form can be enhanced by comparing it to other similar documents. Each of these documents serves a specific purpose and often includes comparable elements. Here’s a list highlighting nine such documents, along with their similarities:

• Death Certificate: Similar to the obituary form, this document officially records the details of a person's death, such as the full name, date of death, and place of death.
• Funeral Program: This outline of the funeral service shares details about the deceased, including their life events and order of service, much like an obituary summarizes one’s life.
• Memorial Notice: Often published in local newspapers, it serves to announce and honor the deceased, providing similar details such as age, date of death, and surviving family members.
• Online Tribute Page: Managed on websites like Legacy.com, this digital platform allows families to create a memorial that includes comprehensive information about the deceased, similar to an obituary.
• Veteran's Memorial Submission: This document requires details regarding military service and survivor information, echoing components found in an obituary for veterans.
• Personal Biography: Often featured in programs or online, this biography includes personal details and achievements, akin to how an obituary lists significant life events.
• Life Celebration Announcement: A more informal way to celebrate a person's life, it shares fond memories and milestones, much like the storytelling found in obituaries.
• Grief Support Literature: This can include details about the deceased and the impact they've had, reflecting on themes and sentiments that are often echoed in an obituary.
• Eulogy: Typically delivered at a service, the eulogy recounts key life events and personal stories, paralleling the information traditionally included in an obituary.

These documents all facilitate the expression of loss while celebrating the lives of individuals. Each serves a unique purpose, yet they share common features, highlighting the significance of the deceased's journey.

When filling out the Standard Examiner Obituary form, careful attention to detail is essential. Below are ten important tips that can help ensure the process goes smoothly.

• Do provide detailed information about the deceased, including full name, age, address, and date of death. This information will be crucial for an accurate obituary.
• Don’t forget to include all significant dates. This includes birth date, marriage dates, and any other important life events that should be mentioned.
• Do consider adding a photo. A picture can enrich the obituary and bring a personal touch.
• Don’t exceed the line limit. Keep in mind that additional lines will increase the cost, so be concise and to the point.
• Do list survivors clearly. Include family members and any significant relationships to honor the deceased properly.
• Don’t rush your submission. Take your time to ensure everything is accurate and complete before submitting the form.
• Do check the deadlines. Be aware of specific submission times to ensure the obituary is published on the desired day.
• Don’t forget to sign the form. Your signature indicates responsibility for the costs associated with the obituary.
• Do have the mortuary verify the obituary. This step ensures that the details are accurate and that the family is properly represented.
• Don’t omit contact information. Provide thorough contact guidance to facilitate communication about the obituary.

Understanding the Standard Examiner obituary form is crucial for ensuring a respectful and accurate tribute to a loved one. Misconceptions can lead to confusion during a difficult time. Here are ten common misconceptions explained:

• Obituaries are free to publish. Many people think that publishing an obituary in a newspaper is free. In reality, the Standard Examiner charges for obituary publications based on the number of lines used.
• Photos lead to extra charges. It is a common belief that including a photo incurs additional fees. However, the cost of the obituary includes a single photo in the line count, so no extra charge applies for processing one photo.
• All obituaries are priced the same. Each obituary cost depends on its length. The Standard Examiner charges $2.45 per line, and the final rate will vary according to how much information is included.
• There is a standard length for all obituaries. Misunderstanding can arise about a one-size-fits-all format. Each obituary will differ in length based on the individual's life details that families wish to share.
• Veteran obituaries do not require special formats. Contrary to belief, veteran obituaries are subject to specific rules, adding two extra lines to the total count for billing purposes.
• Submitting an obituary electronically is unnecessary. Some assume that in-person submissions are sufficient. However, it’s preferred that obituaries are submitted by the mortuary handling arrangements digitally for verification.
• Anyone can submit an obituary without verification. Family members or friends submitting an obituary might think their submission does not require verification. In reality, they need confirmation from the funeral home to proceed.
• There are no deadlines for obituary submissions. Some believe they can submit an obituary at any time and it will be published the next day. The Standard Examiner has specific deadlines that need to be followed for timely publication.
• The obituary department is always available. It’s a misconception that someone will always be available to answer inquiries. Families should leave a message if no one answers the phone, as staff may be tied up with other tasks.
• All necessary information must be included in the first draft. Many might feel pressured to include every detail on the initial submission. However, families have an opportunity to review and refine the information before finalizing the obituary.

Recognizing these misconceptions can make the obituary submission process smoother for everyone involved. Clear communication with the Standard Examiner, as well as understanding the requirements, helps ensure a meaningful farewell.

Filling out the Standard Examiner Obituary form can be a meaningful way to honor a loved one. Here are some essential takeaways to consider:

• Fees Structure: Publishing an obituary incurs a fee of $2.45 per line. Keep in mind that single photos count towards the line measurement, so there is no extra charge for including one.
• Additional Charges: Veteran obituaries incur an additional 2 lines, while double picture obituaries add 18 lines for billing purposes.
• Required Information: Include essential details such as the full name of the deceased, age, date and place of death, and names of surviving family members.
• Verification Requirement: It is preferred that the obituary be submitted by the mortuary handling arrangements. Any submissions from family or friends must be verified by the mortuary.
• Submission Methods: You can submit the obituary in person, via email, mail, or fax. Each method has different processing times, so choose what works best for your situation.
• Publication Deadlines: Be aware of deadlines for publication. For Tuesday to Saturday editions, submit by 3 p.m. the day before. For Sunday, the deadline is 1 p.m. Saturday, and for Monday, it’s 1 p.m. Sunday.

Remember, this process allows you to celebrate the life of your loved one with dignity and respect.