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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
Useful links from: Planning for your funeral
- NHS - Planning your own funeral Official NHS guidance on planning your own funeral, including the steps to take and considerations to make.
- Age UK - Planning for the end of life Age UK's resources to help you plan for the end of life, which includes funeral planning and making arrangements.
- Marie Curie - Planning ahead Marie Curie provides extensive information on planning ahead, including how to arrange a funeral.
- Dying Matters - Planning Ahead Dying Matters offers resources and advice on preparing for end of life, including funeral planning.
Useful links from: Reporting a death using the "Tell Us Once" service
- Tell Us Once - GOV.UK The official GOV.UK page explaining the 'Tell Us Once' service, which allows you to report a death to most government organisations in one go.
- NHS - What to do when someone dies NHS guide on what to do after someone's death, including registering the death and using the 'Tell Us Once' service.
- Citizens Advice - When someone dies Citizens Advice page providing a comprehensive guide on the steps to take after someone dies, including the 'Tell Us Once' service.
- Cruse Bereavement Support Cruse Bereavement Support page offering practical help and guidance on funeral arrangements, including using the 'Tell Us Once' service.
Useful links from: Funeral Costs - Where to get help? - Community Legal Education
- NHS - Help paying for a funeral Information on how the NHS can assist with funeral costs, including details on eligibility and how to apply for financial help.
- Turn2us - Funeral Assistance Turn2us is a national charity that provides practical help and information on accessing financial support for funeral costs.
- Citizens Advice - Help with Funeral Costs Citizens Advice provides guidance on how to get help with funeral costs, including information on the Funeral Expenses Payment.
- Bereavement Advice Centre The Bereavement Advice Centre offers support and advice on managing funeral costs and understanding your financial options.
Useful links from: Reporting a death using the Tell Us Once service - Sign Language Version
- Tell Us Once - GOV.UK Official GOV.UK page providing comprehensive details on the Tell Us Once service, which allows you to report a death to most government organizations in one go. This page offers guidance and contact information.
- NHS - Someone has died NHS guide on what steps to take after someone passes away, including information on the Tell Us Once service. Offers practical advice on the immediate actions to take following a death.
- Cruse Bereavement Care UK-based charity providing support for those suffering from a loss. Details services including help on reporting a death and using the Tell Us Once service.
- DWP - Reporting a death Page from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) offering instructions on how to report a death, including using the Tell Us Once service. Provides contact numbers and additional resources.
Useful links from: Child Bereavement
- NHS - Coping with bereavement This page on the NHS website offers guidance on how to cope with grief after bereavement or loss, including information on where to get more support.
- Child Bereavement UK Child Bereavement UK supports families and educates professionals when a baby or child of any age dies or is dying, or when a child is facing bereavement.
- Winston's Wish Winston’s Wish is the UK’s first childhood bereavement charity, providing services to support bereaved children and young people.
- Cruse Bereavement Support Cruse Bereavement Support offers face-to-face, telephone, email and website support to people who are feeling overwhelmed by grief.
Useful links from: The new death certification process in the UK
- NHS - Death Notification and Certification This NHS page provides guidance on death certification, including any changes made during the COVID-19 pandemic, with information on new processes for healthcare professionals.
- Gov.uk - Guidance for Local Registrars This official government page offers guidance for completing a Medical Certificate of Cause of Death in England and Wales, aimed at medical practitioners.
- Cruse Bereavement Support - What to Do When Someone Dies Cruse Bereavement Support provides relevant information for individuals going through the death certification process after losing a loved one, including practical steps and emotional support.
- Marie Curie - Dealing with Bereavement Marie Curie's website offers guidance on dealing with bereavement, practical information on steps after someone dies, and support through the new death certification process.
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- Videos shown by Youtube after a video has completed, have NOT been reviewed by ERGSY.
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- You may need to turn these on, and choose your preferred language.
- Go to the video you'd like to watch.
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