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Reporting a Death Using the Tell Us Once Service
The Tell Us Once service is a government initiative designed to help streamline the process of reporting a death to various government departments. This service is available to residents of the United Kingdom and aims to reduce the burden on grieving families by ensuring that multiple government agencies are informed of the deceased's passing with a single notification.
How to Use the Tell Us Once Service
Once a death has been registered, you will be given a unique reference number that allows you access to the Tell Us Once service. You can use this service either online or by telephone. When using the service, you will need to provide various pieces of information, including the deceased’s personal details, next of kin, and any surviving spouse or civil partner's details.
Information to Provide
To successfully report a death using the Tell Us Once service, you will need to gather and provide the following information:
- The deceased's National Insurance number.
- Details of any benefits or entitlements they were receiving, such as pensions or disability allowances.
- Driver’s licence if they had one.
- Passport details if applicable.
- Information about any local council services they were receiving, such as housing benefits or council tax reductions.
- Their Blue Badge if they held one.
- Details of any current driving vehicle tax payments.
Departments Informed Through Tell Us Once
The Tell Us Once service will notify the following departments and organizations on your behalf:
- HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) to deal with tax and benefits.
- Passport Office to cancel their passport.
- Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) to cancel their driving licence.
- The local council to update services such as council tax or benefits.
- Public sector or armed forces pension schemes.
Assistance and Support
Using the Tell Us Once service helps ensure that all relevant parties are notified of the death without requiring multiple calls or appointments, which can be particularly helpful during a difficult time. If you need any assistance or support while using the service, the local registrars can provide guidance. Additionally, further information can be found on the UK government’s official website.
By making use of the Tell Us Once service, you can simplify the administrative process of reporting a death, allowing you to focus on supporting your family and dealing with personal matters.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Tell Us Once service?
The Tell Us Once service is a program in the United Kingdom that allows you to report a death to most government organizations in a single step.
Who can use the Tell Us Once service?
The service can be used by immediate family members or anyone who is dealing with the deceased person's affairs.
How do I access the Tell Us Once service?
You can access the Tell Us Once service online, by phone, or in person at a registry office.
What information will I need to provide to use the Tell Us Once service?
You will need to provide information including the deceased person's date of birth, National Insurance number, driving licence number, passport number, details of any benefits or social services they were receiving, and the name and address of their next of kin.
Do I need to provide the death certificate?
Yes, you will need to provide the death certificate when you use the Tell Us Once service.
Can Tell Us Once notify financial institutions and companies?
No, the Tell Us Once service only notifies government organizations. You will need to contact financial institutions and companies separately.
Is there a fee for using the Tell Us Once service?
The Tell Us Once service is free of charge.
How soon should I use the Tell Us Once service after a death?
You should use the Tell Us Once service as soon as possible after the death has been registered.
Can I use the Tell Us Once service if the death was registered outside the UK?
No, the Tell Us Once service can only be used for deaths registered in the United Kingdom.
What government organizations are notified using Tell Us Once?
Tell Us Once notifies various government organizations including HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC), the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), the Passport Office, the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA), and local councils.
How long does it take to complete the Tell Us Once process?
The process typically takes about 30 minutes to complete.
Can someone else complete the Tell Us Once service on my behalf?
Yes, someone else can complete the Tell Us Once service on your behalf if they have your permission and the necessary information.
What should I do if I have technical issues accessing the Tell Us Once service online?
If you encounter technical issues, you can use the telephone service or visit a local registry office for assistance.
Can I amend the information provided to Tell Us Once at a later date?
If you need to amend the information provided, you should contact the specific government organizations directly.
What happens after I complete the Tell Us Once service?
After completing the Tell Us Once service, the relevant government organizations will update their records accordingly and may contact you if they need additional information.
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