What to do when someone dies

This page is part of the following topics:

Planning a funeral

When someone passes away in the United Kingdom, there are several important steps that need to be taken to handle their affairs and ensure a smooth process for their loved ones. Here's a brief guide on what to do:

Obtain a Medical Certificate: If the person dies at home or in a care facility, you'll need to contact a doctor to issue a Medical Certificate of Cause of Death. If the death occurs in a hospital, they will provide this certificate.
Register the Death: You must register the death at the local Register Office within five days in England and Wales (eight days in Scotland). You'll need the Medical Certificate of Cause of Death and other relevant documents.
Arrange the Funeral: Contact a funeral director to make arrangements for the funeral or cremation. The deceased's wishes, if known, should be considered.
Notify Authorities: Inform relevant authorities, such as the deceased's bank, pension provider, and government agencies like the Department for Work and Pensions. They will guide you on how to proceed with financial matters.
Check for a Will: Determine if the deceased had a will. If so, the executor named in the will should handle the estate. If there's no will, an administrator may need to be appointed.
Settle Financial Affairs: Assess and settle any outstanding debts, taxes, and bills using the deceased's assets. You may need to apply for a Grant of Representation to access their assets.
Notify Friends and Family: Inform friends, family, and relevant organizations about the death.
Deal with the Estate: Distribute the deceased's assets among beneficiaries as per their wishes or according to legal rules of inheritance.
Grieve and Seek Support: Coping with the loss of a loved one can be emotionally challenging. Seek support from friends, family, or professional counselors during this time.
Closing Accounts: Close or transfer accounts, such as utilities, subscriptions, and social media profiles.

What to Do When Someone Dies in the United Kingdom

Contact the Relevant Authorities

When someone passes away, the immediate step is to contact the relevant authorities. If the death occurs at home, you should call the doctor who has been treating the deceased, or an out-of-hours doctor if it is outside of normal business hours. If the death is sudden or unexpected, contact emergency services by dialing 999. In a hospital or care home setting, the staff will handle this process for you.

Register the Death

In the United Kingdom, you must register the death within five days unless a coroner is involved. You will need to provide the doctor’s medical certificate showing the cause of death and, if possible, the deceased’s birth and marriage or civil partnership certificates. The death can be registered at the local registry office where the death occurred, or you can choose to register it at a more convenient location.

Inform Family, Friends, and Relevant Organisations

Notify close family members and friends promptly. Apart from relatives and friends, you should also inform other relevant organisations including banks, utility companies, and governmental bodies. Using the "Tell Us Once" service can simplify the process of alerting multiple government departments about the death.

Arrange the Funeral

Planning the funeral involves deciding between burial or cremation, choosing a funeral home, and ensuring that the deceased’s wishes are followed if they left any instructions. You might need to check for any prepaid funeral plans. Discuss with other family members to make decisions respectfully and ensure everyone’s views are considered.

Manage the Deceased's Estate

Handling the deceased's estate includes settling any outstanding debts and distributing their assets as per the will or, if there is no will, according to UK intestacy laws. It's advisable to speak with a solicitor, particularly if the estate is complex. You will need to apply for probate if you are the executor of the will.

Look After Yourself

Dealing with the death of a loved one is emotionally overwhelming, so it is crucial to look after your own well-being. Seek support from family, friends, or professional counselors. Don't hesitate to ask for help when needed and take care of your mental and physical health during this challenging time.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the first thing I should do when someone dies?

The first thing to do is to contact a medical professional to confirm the death and issue a Medical Certificate of Cause of Death.

Who can register the death?

A close relative, relative in-law, someone who was present at the death, or an official from the hospital or care home where the person died can register the death.

How long do I have to register a death?

In England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, a death must be registered within 5 days. In Scotland, it must be registered within 8 days.

Where do I register a death?

You need to register the death at a local register office. In some areas, you might need to make an appointment.

What documents do I need to register a death?

You will need the Medical Certificate of Cause of Death, and it’s useful to have the birth certificate, marriage/civil partnership certificate, and NHS medical card of the deceased.

What happens after a death is registered?

You will receive a Death Certificate, which allows you to arrange the funeral. You may also get a Certificate for Burial or Cremation.

Can I get extra copies of the death certificate?

Yes, you can request additional certified copies when you register the death. These are often needed for probate and insurance claims.

Who should I inform after someone dies?

You should inform family members, friends, the deceased’s employer, banks, insurance companies, and government agencies such as HMRC and DVLA.

What can I do if I can't cover the funeral costs?

You may be eligible for a Funeral Expenses Payment from the government if you receive certain benefits. Funeral directors may also offer payment plans.

What is probate, and do I need it?

Probate is the legal process of administering the deceased’s estate. You may need it if the deceased had significant assets or their bank requires it.

How do I apply for probate?

You apply for probate by filling in a probate application form, paying a fee, and submitting it along with the original will and the death certificate.

What happens if the deceased didn’t leave a will?

If there is no will, the estate is distributed according to the rules of intestacy. You may need to apply for Letters of Administration instead of probate.

What are the main responsibilities of an executor of a will?

The executor is responsible for managing the deceased’s estate, paying any debts, and distributing assets according to the will.

How can I close the deceased’s bank accounts?

You will need to inform the bank with a copy of the death certificate and, if required, a grant of probate or letters of administration.

What support is available for grieving?

Numerous charities and organizations such as Cruse Bereavement Support offer counselling and support for those dealing with grief.

Useful Links

Useful Links : What to do when someone dies

NHS - What to do when someone dies

A comprehensive guide from the NHS detailing the steps you need to take immediately after someone dies, including how to register a death and arrange a funeral.

Cruse Bereavement Support

Cruse Bereavement Support offers a range of services to help people cope with the loss of a loved one, including a free helpline, local services, and an online chat support.

Citizens Advice - What to do when someone dies

Citizens Advice provides detailed information on the practical steps to take when someone dies, such as dealing with the will, finances, and property.

Mind - Bereavement

Mind offers resources and support for those grieving, including how to cope with bereavement, where to get help, and tips for supporting others.