After a Bereavement — Practical Next Steps
A practical checklist of what needs to be done after someone dies — registering the death, notifying organisations, dealing with finances and accessing bereavement support.
Key Facts
- A death must be registered within 5 days in England, Wales and Northern Ireland
- A doctor or coroner issues a Medical Certificate of Cause of Death
- Tell the DWP, pension provider, bank, HMRC and council within a few weeks
- The Tell Us Once service notifies most government departments simultaneously
- Bereavement Leave: employees are entitled to paid leave from employers
- Cruse Bereavement Support helpline: 0808 808 1677
The First Few Days
In the first days: (1) A doctor or coroner must certify the death and issue a Medical Certificate of Cause of Death (MCCD). (2) Register the death at the local Register Office within 5 days (8 days in Scotland). (3) Obtain death certificates — you will need multiple certified copies. (4) If applicable, contact a funeral director. (5) Notify close family and friends.
Notifying Organisations
Use the Government's Tell Us Once service (available at the Register Office when you register the death) to inform HMRC, DWP, DVLA, Passport Office and the local council in one go. Contact banks and financial institutions, insurance providers, pension providers, and cancel any subscriptions or services.
Support After Bereavement
Grief is different for everyone. Cruse Bereavement Support (0808 808 1677) offers free counselling and support. The Samaritans (116 123) are available 24/7. Your GP can refer you to talking therapies. Give yourself time — there is no right way to grieve.