What to do when someone dies
Immediate steps after someone dies
The immediate steps after a death depend on where it occurs. If the person dies at home, call a GP or emergency services if the death was unexpected. If it was expected, the GP can confirm the death and issue a medical certificate. If the person passes away in hospital, the hospital staff will handle the initial procedures and issue a Medical Certificate of Cause of Death (MCCD). In cases of unexpected, suspicious, or accidental deaths, the police should be notified, and they will involve the coroner if necessary.
Notifying the Right People
Once the death is confirmed, you should inform close family members and friends. If the person passed away at home, notify their GP. Depending on the circumstances, you may also need to contact the coroner or the local registrar of births, deaths, and marriages.
How to Register a Death
In England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, a death must be registered within five days. Visit your local register office with the required documents, including the Medical Certificate of Cause of Death (MCCD). While not mandatory, bringing the deceased’s birth certificate, marriage certificate, and proof of address can be helpful. Upon registration, you will receive a death certificate and a Certificate for Burial or Cremation, also known as the green form.
When a Death Is Referred to a Coroner
If the cause of death is unknown, sudden, or unnatural, the case is referred to a coroner. This may involve a post-mortem examination or an inquest to determine the cause. The coroner will issue the necessary documents for burial or cremation once investigations are complete.
Arranging the Funeral
After registration, you can begin funeral arrangements. A funeral director can assist with planning, whether you choose burial or cremation. The green form provided by the registrar is required for the funeral to proceed. Funeral choices often depend on personal, cultural, or religious preferences.
Who to Notify After Registering the Death
Once the death is registered, the ‘Tell Us Once’ service can notify most government organisations, including HMRC, the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), DVLA, and the local council. Additionally, you should inform banks, insurance providers, utility companies, pension services, employers, and any clubs or social groups the deceased was part of.
Legal and Financial Matters
If the deceased had a will, the named executor must apply for probate to manage the estate. If no will exists, the estate is distributed according to intestacy laws. Financial institutions must be contacted to settle outstanding accounts and handle financial matters. Seeking professional legal advice may help simplify the process.
Dealing with a death can be overwhelming, but understanding the necessary steps can make the process more manageable. Seeking support from professionals and relevant services can provide guidance during this difficult time.
