Losing a loved one is one of life’s most profound challenges, often leaving us in a whirlwind of grief and confusion. At Country Cousins, we understand that amidst the heartache, there are essential tasks that must be addressed—tasks that can feel overwhelming during such an emotional time. Knowing what steps to take can help ease the burden and provide clarity.
This guide provides answers on the necessary actions to take immediately after a death, helping you navigate the practical side of bereavement. From registering the death to arranging a funeral and dealing with the deceased’s estate, we offer compassionate guidance to support you through this difficult journey.
What happens after a death?
The first steps you take after a death can vary greatly depending on the circumstances. Whether the passing was expected or sudden, understanding what to do next can help bring some clarity in a tumultuous time.
If a loved one dies at home and their death was expected
When someone passes away at home and the death is anticipated, the first thing to do is to contact their GP or family doctor. They will issue a medical certificate confirming the cause of death, which is essential for registering the death. You will also receive a formal notice that guides you on how to register the death. Once you feel ready, reach out to a funeral director of your choice to make arrangements for moving the body.
What to do when a loved one dies at home
In cases where the death is unexpected, call emergency services immediately by dialling 999. If the cause of death is unclear, it may need to be reported to a coroner for investigation. This can include a post-mortem examination to determine the cause, which may delay funeral arrangements. Understandably, this process can be unsettling, as police will also arrive to gather information regarding the circumstances of the death. Remember that these procedures are standard and are aimed at providing clarity.
What if they die in hospital
When a loved one passes away in a hospital, the medical team will guide you through the next steps. A medical examiner will verify the cause of death and the hospital will issue the necessary certificates. Typically, the body will be held in the hospital mortuary until the family makes arrangements with a funeral director.
What if they die abroad
Losing a loved one abroad adds another layer of complexity. You will need to follow the local regulations for registering the death and may require a certified translation of the death certificate if it’s not in English. It’s also advisable to contact the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) for assistance in navigating the legalities involved.
How to register a death in the UK
Once you have taken the immediate steps following a death, the next essential task is to register it. This legal requirement must be completed within five days unless the death is referred to the coroner.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the registration process.
Step 1: Find a register office
You can register a death at any register office in the UK, but it’s advisable to choose one in the area where the death occurred. This way, you will receive the necessary documents on the same day. Most register offices require you to make an appointment, so it’s a good idea to call ahead.
Step 2: Prepare the required information
When you visit the register office, you’ll need to provide specific information about the deceased.
This includes:
- The medical certificate signed by a doctor or documentation from the coroner confirming the cause of death.
- The date and place of death.
- The full name of the deceased, including any previous names.
- Their date and place of birth.
- Their usual address.
- Their most recent occupation, and whether they were retired.
- Information about any benefits they were receiving, such as the State Pension.
- The name, occupation and date of birth of their spouse or civil partner.
If possible, take along additional documents such as their birth certificate, NHS number, passport, marriage or civil partnership certificate and proof of their address (like a utility bill).
Step 3: What you will receive
After providing the necessary information, the registrar will issue:
- A certificate for burial or cremation (commonly referred to as the ‘Green Form’).
- A unique reference number for the Tell Us Once service.
- Leaflets about bereavement benefits.
- A death certificate, which may incur a fee.
Step 4: Obtain extra copies of the death certificate
It’s wise to order additional copies of the death certificate, as you may need them for various organisations when settling the deceased’s affairs. Keep in mind that ordinary photocopies aren’t accepted by banks or insurance companies.
Step 5: Update official records
The Tell Us Once service allows you to notify multiple government departments of the death in one go. This service is available through most local councils. When you register the death, the registrar will inform you about using this service, either helping you directly or providing a unique reference number.
By completing the registration process promptly, you can ensure that everything is in order for the next steps in managing your loved one’s affairs. In the following section, we’ll discuss how to inform organisations and government services about the death.
Who to contact when someone dies
Once you have registered the death, the next important step is to inform various organisations and government services. This ensures that all necessary changes are made regarding the deceased’s affairs and helps prevent any complications down the line.
Using the Tell Us Once service
If available in your area, the Tell Us Once service simplifies this process by allowing you to report a death to several government departments in one go. This includes local services such as libraries and electoral services, as well as HM Passport Office, the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) and the Department for Work and Pensions.
When registering the death, the registrar will explain how to use the Tell Us Once service and can either assist you or provide a unique reference number for you to use later.
Notifying other organisations
If your local council does not offer the Tell Us Once service, you will need to contact various organisations individually.
This may include:
- Banks and building societies
- Insurance companies
- Personal or occupational pension scheme providers
- Utility companies
- Housing providers, such as mortgage lenders or landlords
- Any charities, organisations or subscriptions the deceased had regular payments with
- Their GP, dentist, optician and other medical care providers
It is also advisable to register the deceased with the Bereavement Register. This helps to remove their details from mailing lists, reducing the amount of advertising mail you may receive.
Returning documentation
In addition to notifying these organisations, you’ll need to return the deceased’s driver’s licence to the DVLA and their passport to the HM Passport Office. This ensures that all records are updated and prevents any misuse of their identity.
By informing all relevant organisations promptly, you can help streamline the process of managing your loved one’s estate and honour their memory appropriately. In the next section, we will discuss the arrangements for the funeral.
Arranging a funeral
Arranging a funeral can feel overwhelming during such a difficult time, but it is an important step in honouring your loved one’s memory. The process may vary depending on whether the deceased left any specific instructions regarding their wishes.
Understanding funeral wishes
Before making any arrangements, check if the deceased left behind any guidance in their will or a separate document regarding their funeral preferences. This may include whether they preferred burial or cremation, as well as any specific details about the service. If they had a pre-paid funeral plan, this will outline the arrangements already made.
If no clear wishes were expressed, the executor of the will or the nearest relative will typically be responsible for making the decisions.
Choosing a funeral director
When selecting a funeral director, it’s important to ensure they are registered with a professional body, such as the National Association of Funeral Directors or the National Society of Allied and Independent Funeral Directors. Reputable funeral directors will provide a standardised price list, making it easier for you to compare costs.
When speaking to potential funeral directors, request an itemised quote that includes:
- The funeral director’s services
- Costs of individual items (e.g., coffin, hearse)
- Transfer of the deceased from the place of death
- Care of the deceased before the funeral
- Arrangements and necessary paperwork
Be aware that there may be additional fees for third-party services, such as crematorium costs or clergy fees. Always ask for clarity on any charges that may apply.
Arranging a funeral without a director
If you prefer a more personal touch or wish to save on costs, you can opt for a ‘do-it-yourself’ funeral. This involves taking on the organisation yourself and can often be tailored to reflect the wishes of the deceased more closely. If this route interests you, it’s advisable to contact your local council for guidance on arranging the funeral at a cemetery or crematorium.
Financing the funeral
Funeral costs can accumulate quickly, so it’s important to consider how the expenses will be covered. Potential sources of funds may include:
- Personal contributions from family and friends
- Life insurance policies or pension payouts
- Pre-paid funeral plans
- The estate of the deceased (where funeral costs typically take precedence over most other debts)
If you are on a low income and responsible for arranging the funeral, you may be eligible for a Funeral Expenses Payment from the Department of Work and Pensions. This can help cover some basic costs of the funeral.
Dealing with the estate
Once the funeral arrangements are complete, the next step is to deal with the estate of the deceased. This includes managing their money, property and possessions. The process can vary depending on whether the deceased left a valid will and whether you are named as the executor.
Determining if there is a will
The first step is to locate the deceased’s will. If a valid will exists and you have been appointed as the executor, you will need to apply for a grant of probate. This legal process allows you to distribute the estate according to the deceased’s wishes as outlined in their will.
If no will exists, the estate will be handled according to the laws of intestacy, meaning that the deceased’s assets will be distributed to their next of kin in a specific order set by law.
Applying for probate
To apply for probate, you will need to complete an application form and submit it to the local probate registry along with the original will (if applicable) and the death certificate. There may be a fee for this application, but it can vary depending on the value of the estate.
Once granted, probate gives you the legal authority to manage the estate, including settling debts and distributing assets.
Learn more about applying for probate on GOV.UK.
Managing the estate
As the executor (or administrator, if there is no will), your responsibilities will include:
- Notifying relevant organisations and creditors of the death
- Paying any outstanding debts or taxes
- Collecting and valuing the deceased’s assets
- Distributing the remaining assets according to the will or the rules of intestacy
It’s advisable to keep thorough records of all transactions related to the estate to ensure transparency and to assist with any potential inquiries.
Finalising the estate
Once all debts have been settled and the assets have been distributed, you can formally close the estate. This may involve submitting final accounts to the beneficiaries and ensuring all legal obligations have been met.
Talk to our team today
If you are considering live-in care for you or your loved one, get in touch with us at Country Cousins today. We are the UK’s longest-serving introductory care agency, having provided compassionate care to people in their own homes since 1959.
Give us a call today on 01293 224 706 should you have any questions about home care. Our experienced team is on hand to help from Monday to Friday, 8 am to 6 pm. Alternatively, contact us through our online enquiry form.
