What to do when someone dies
When someone dies, it can be a very complicated and confusing time for the next of kin. Not only is it deeply emotional, but there are practical steps that must take place.
Unless someone has previously experienced a loss, they are unlikely to know what to do when someone dies. We’ve put together a helpful and straightforward guide to the essential steps you will need to take.
1) Confirming the death
A death must be formally confirmed by a medical professional. If the person dies at home, you’ll need to contact their GP or the NHS helpline. If they die in hospital, staff will take care of this step on your behalf. Once confirmed, you will receive a Medical Certificate of Cause of Death, which you need before you can register the death.
2) Registering the death
Registering a death is a legal requirement and must be done within five days in England and Wales (or eight days in Scotland), unless the death is referred to a coroner.
You’ll need:
The Medical Certificate of Cause of Death
Personal details of the deceased
Any supporting documents such as a birth certificate or NHS number
The registrar will issue the official death certificate and the paperwork needed for burial or cremation. This step is central to most other administrative and financial tasks. If the death was sudden, unexpected, or unexplained, it may be referred to a coroner. This can delay registration, but you may receive an interim certificate that allows you to begin notifying organisations and arranging certain aspects of the estate.
3) Notifying services and organisations
Using the “Tell Us Once” service
One of the most important steps after registering a death is using the Tell Us Once service. This UK government service allows you to report the death to multiple departments at the same time, including:
HMRC
DWP (for pensions and benefits)
DVLA
Local council services
You’ll receive a unique reference number from the registrar and details to access the service online or by phone. This simple all-in-one process should help to significantly reduce administrative stress.
Notifying other organisations
Beyond government departments, you’ll need to contact:
Banks and building societies
Mortgage providers and landlords
Utility companies
Insurance providers
Employers and pension schemes
Each organisation will have its own process for closing or transferring accounts, and many will ask for a copy of the death certificate.
Digital Legacy
You may also wish to consider the digital legacy of the person who has died. We all have a digital footprint, such as social media accounts, emails, online gaming and many more. Take a look at our interview with James Norris, founder of the Digital Legacy Association, to find out what you should know.
4) Arranging the funeral
A funeral can only take place after the death is registered (unless a coroner is involved). You can choose to use a funeral director or arrange the funeral yourself. You will need to consider whether the deceased left funeral wishes, prepaid for funeral plans or had life insurance, had burial or cremation preferences and religious or cultural requirements. Funeral directors can guide you through the legal paperwork and practical arrangements. Read our blog on what makes a good goodbye, click here.
5) Managing the estate and probate
If the deceased left a will, the named executor is responsible for managing the estate. If there is no will, the estate is handled under intestacy rules. Key tasks include valuing the estate, checking for inheritance tax obligations, applying for probate (a grant of probate is a legal document) and distributing assets to beneficiaries. Probate is often required to access bank accounts, sell property, or manage investments.
6) Additional practical tasks
There are several other important steps that are easily overlooked during such a difficult time:
Securing the property
Redirecting post
Cancelling subscriptions and memberships
Managing pets or dependants
These tasks help protect the estate and prevent identity fraud.
7) Emotional and practical support
Bereavement can be overwhelming. Charities, local councils, and NHS services offer emotional support, counselling, and practical guidance. Many people also find comfort in community groups or faith-based organisations. You can find bereavement resources here.
Bringing it all together
The process of what to do when someone dies in the UK can feel daunting, but breaking it into the clear steps outlined above helps you stay organised during a difficult time.
Sources
Death and bereavement - GOV.UK
What to do when someone dies: step by step - GOV.UK
What to do when someone dies | Hospice UK
Complete UK Probate Guide 2026: Step-by-Step Process (With Timeline & Costs)
