When someone dies, there can suddenly be a lot to do at a time when you least feel like doing it. This checklist sets out the practical steps in the order they usually need to happen in the UK. You do not have to do everything at once.
The first few hours
- 1Get a medical certificate. If the death was expected, the GP or hospital doctor will issue a medical certificate of cause of death. If it was sudden or unexpected, the death may need to be reported to the coroner (in Scotland, the Procurator Fiscal).
- 2If the death happened at home and was expected, call the GP or NHS 111. If it was unexpected, call 999.
- 3Contact a funeral director when you feel ready. They can bring the person who has died into their care at any time of day or night.
The first few days
- 1Register the death at the local register office. You will need the medical certificate and, if available, the person's birth certificate, marriage certificate and NHS card.
- 2Use the Tell Us Once service — the registrar will give you a reference number. It informs most government departments in one step.
- 3Check whether there is a will. It may name an executor and sometimes includes funeral wishes.
- 4Start thinking about the funeral — whether burial or cremation, and whether the person left any wishes or a pre-paid plan.
When quotes start to arrive, a simple funeral budget can help you keep track of the costs in one place.
The following weeks
- Tell banks, building societies and pension providers
- Contact utility companies, phone and broadband providers
- Cancel or transfer insurance policies, subscriptions and memberships
- Return the person's driving licence and passport
- Look into probate or confirmation (in Scotland) if there is an estate to deal with
- Check whether you qualify for Bereavement Support Payment or help with funeral costs