Afterword Achieves SOC 2 Type II Certification

Afterword, an innovator in funeral home management software, has achieved a major security milestone: SOC 2 Type II certification. This is the gold standard of cloud security, and according to an Afterword news release, it is the first company in the funeral profession to reach it.

SOC 2 Type II is an independent audit that confirms a company’s systems keep data safe, secure, and private on an ongoing basis. Unlike SOC 2 Type I, which looks at a system for one moment in time, Type II proves those protections are effective over a sustained period. For funeral homes, it is trusted proof that family information and business data are fully protected.

“Trust is a cornerstone of the funeral profession, so security must be a cornerstone of our company,” said Zack Moy, co-founder and chief technology officer of Afterword (pictured at top with company co-founder Effie Anolik). “Families entrust funeral directors with sensitive and personal information during a vulnerable time. Our responsibility is to ensure the technology behind that trust is just as strong. Achieving this certification is not about checking a box. It is a real validation of our commitment to protecting client and family data.”

Building Security into AI

This security foundation powers Afterword’s latest AI innovations, including its assistant, Grace. Grace automates time-consuming tasks like digitizing handwritten forms, compiling “Family Cheat Sheets” from records for arrangements, or sending follow-up emails. Each of these actions involves sensitive information, and now each one is backed by an audited, secure process.

“AI can only be truly helpful if it’s completely trustworthy,” Moy added. “You can’t have one without the other. As we continue to innovate with Grace and beyond, security is always our first and last thought.”

Security as a Foundation for Connection

Afterword’s achievement also sets a new benchmark for technology providers in funeral service. Strong security is not just about protecting our own systems. It is about creating the foundation for an open and collaborative ecosystem.

“Our security posture allows us to champion data portability and integration,” said Moy. “Our customers own their data fully, which is why we created the Funeral Data Alliance. This certification ensures they and our partners can share and integrate information with confidence, enabling a more connected and efficient future for the profession.”

Empowering Next-Generation Funeral Homes

Afterword provides funeral homes with technology for every part of their business: case management, online planning, payments, documents and eSignatures, whiteboard checklists, chain of custody, AI assistants, and reporting. With Grace handling the tasks that slow teams down, funeral directors can focus on what matters most — serving families.