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The death of someone you love brings a wave of emotion that can make even simple tasks feel impossible. Yet in the days that follow, a number of practical steps must be taken — some with strict legal deadlines.
This guide sets out what to do, in order, so you can focus on the things that matter most.
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At a glance
What it covers
The key legal and practical steps to take in England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland after a death.
Who it's for
Next of kin and close family members who need to manage the immediate administrative responsibilities.
Key takeaway
Register the death first — everything else, from funeral arrangements to notifying government departments, follows from that.
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Step 1 — Obtain the medical certificate
If your loved one died in hospital, the medical certificate of cause of death (MCCD) will be issued by the attending doctor, usually online. If the death occurred at home:
- Natural causes: contact their GP, who will issue the MCCD.
- Unexpected or unexplained death: the police will attend and the matter may be referred to the coroner. The MCCD is issued after the coroner's investigation.
Step 2 — Gather the documents you will need
The registrar will need certain information when you register the death. Gather as many of the following as possible:
- The medical certificate of cause of death
- Full name (including any previous names such as maiden name)
- Date and place of birth
- Last address
- Occupation
- Full name, date of birth, and occupation of a surviving or late spouse or civil partner
- Birth certificate, marriage or civil partnership certificate
- National Insurance number and NHS medical card
- Proof of address (utility bill or similar)
- Driving licence and passport (if available)
Step 3 — Register the death
You must register the death at the local register office:
| Nation | Deadline |
|---|---|
| England, Wales & Northern Ireland | Within 5 days |
| Scotland | Within 8 days |
If there is a coroner's inquest, the deadline is paused until the investigation concludes. At registration you will receive a death certificate, a certificate for burial or cremation (the 'green form'), and a registration or notification of death form. Order several certified copies of the death certificate — you will need them for banks, insurers, and other organisations.
For more detail, see our guide on death certificates and the MCCD.
Step 4 — Arrange the funeral
Once the death is registered and you have the burial or cremation certificate, funeral arrangements can proceed. A funeral director can manage paperwork, transportation, and ceremony planning on your behalf. If the deceased left a will or expressed wishes, follow those where possible.
Key decisions include: burial or cremation, choice of coffin or urn, funeral venue, and whether you wish to hold a traditional service or a more personal celebration of life. Funero can help with direct cremation at a dignified and transparent price.
Step 5 — Notify organisations and government departments
The Tell Us Once service (England, Wales, and Scotland) lets you report a death to most government departments in a single notification — covering HMRC, DVLA, the Passport Office, the DWP, and your local council. See our full guide to Tell Us Once.
You should also notify: banks and building societies, insurers, pension providers, landlords, utilities suppliers, and subscription services. A complete notification checklist is available in our Guidances section.
Step 6 — Check entitlements
Depending on your circumstances, you may be entitled to financial support. This can include Bereavement Support Payment, the Funeral Expenses Payment (for those on qualifying benefits), and other allowances. Contact the DWP or visit GOV.UK to check what you may be eligible for.
Frequently asked questions
What if the death happened abroad?
If a loved one dies outside the UK, you will need to engage the local authorities and the British consulate or embassy. Funero specialises in body repatriation and can guide you through the international paperwork.
Can I use Tell Us Once if the deceased lived in Northern Ireland?
Tell Us Once is available in Northern Ireland for some departments. Check GOV.UK for the current list of participating services.
What if there is no will?
If the person died intestate (without a will), their estate is distributed under the rules of intestacy. Our guide on what to do when a parent dies without a will explains how this works.
If you need guidance on any aspect of what follows a death, contact us at info@funero.co.uk. We are here to help.
