Reporting a death using the "Tell Us Once" service

Reporting a Death Using the "Tell Us Once" Service

Introduction to the "Tell Us Once" Service

The "Tell Us Once" service is an invaluable resource provided by the UK government, designed to streamline the process of reporting a death. This service allows you to inform multiple government departments and agencies about the death of a loved one through a single notification, thereby reducing the stress and administrative burden during an already difficult time.

Eligibility and Initial Steps

Before utilizing the "Tell Us Once" service, you must first register the death. This can be done at the local register office or online via the official government website. Once the death is registered, you will receive a unique reference number for the "Tell Us Once" service. This reference number can be used either online or in-person at the register office to notify various entities.

Information Required

To use the "Tell Us Once" service effectively, you'll need specific information about the deceased, including their: - National Insurance number - Driving licence number - Passport number - Details of any benefits or entitlements they were receiving - Relevant local council services they were accessing - Any public sector or armed forces pensions they held Additionally, information about the next of kin and any surviving spouses or partners will also be required.

Departments Informed Through the Service

The "Tell Us Once" service informs multiple government departments, including: - The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) for any state benefits or pension adjustments - HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) for tax and National Insurance purposes - HM Passport Office to cancel the deceased’s passport - The local council for matters such as council tax and electoral registration - The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) to cancel the deceased’s driving licence - Public sector or armed forces pension schemes to stop pension payments

How to Access the Service

The "Tell Us Once" service can be accessed online via the official government website or in-person at your local register office. When accessing the service online, you will need the unique reference number provided at registration. If you prefer in-person assistance, make an appointment with the register office to use the service directly.

Final Thoughts

The "Tell Us Once" service is a compassionate and effective solution to manage the administrative duties that follow the passing of a loved one. By notifying multiple government departments and agencies through a single point of contact, you can focus on grieving and personal matters rather than being overwhelmed by bureaucratic processes. For more information, visit the official UK government website or consult your local register office.