When a loved one passes away, one of the important tasks that must be carried out is registering their death. Registration is a legal requirement in the UK and provides official recognition of a person’s death, as well as being important for administrative matters for family and friends including funeral arrangements, inheritance, and informing relevant authorities.

At our independent funeral directors, we guide you through the process of registering a death, including the necessary documents required, your next steps, and options available.

When Someone Dies: How to Register a Death

What You Need to Know Before Registering a Death

Who Can Register a Death?

In most cases, a death must be registered by someone close to the deceased. This could be:

A family member
A spouse or partner
A close relative
A funeral director (in some cases)

When Should a Death Be Registered?

A death must be registered within a specific time frame—usually within 35 days of the death occurring (though this can vary depending on your location). It’s essential to register the death as soon as possible to avoid any complications with official processes.

Where Can a Death Be Registered?

The death can be registered at:

The local registrar’s office in the area where the death occurred.
In some cases, you may be able to register the death online or through a mobile registration service, depending on your location.

Documents and Information Required for Registering a Death

Required Documents

To register a death, you will need to provide several documents:

Death Certificate: This is issued by a doctor or hospital following the death. It confirms the cause of death.\
Medical Certificate: (if applicable): If the death was sudden or unexplained, a medical certificate or post-mortem report may be needed.
Personal Identification Documents: Details such as the full name, date of birth, and address of the deceased.
Proof of Identity for the Informant: You’ll need to provide proof of your relationship to the deceased and your identity (e.g., driver’s license, passport).

Information You Will Need to Provide

You will be asked to give the following details:

Full name, date of birth, and address of the deceased.
Date and place of death.
The occupation of the deceased (if relevant).
The name, occupation, and relationship of the person registering the death.

The Step-by-Step Process

Step 1: Obtain the Death Certificate

The first step in registering a death is obtaining the official death certificate from a doctor, hospital, or coroner. This document is necessary for the registration process and confirms the cause of death.

Step 2: Visit the Local Registrar

Once you have the death certificate, you’ll need to visit the local registrar’s office. Depending on your location, you may be able to book an appointment or walk in to register the death. Some regions also offer online registration options for convenience.

Step 3: Submit the Required Documents

When you arrive at the registrar’s office, you will need to provide all necessary documents (e.g., the death certificate, personal identification). Be prepared to fill out forms that provide details about the deceased and your relationship to them.

Step 4: Obtain the Death Certificate and Other Documents

Once the registration is complete, you will receive an official death certificate. You can typically request multiple copies, which may be needed for various purposes such as closing accounts, claiming insurance, or arranging the funeral. There may be a small fee for each additional copy.

What Happens After Registration?

Receiving the Official Death Certificate

After the death is registered, you will receive the official death certificate. The time it takes to receive the certificate may vary, but typically it’s issued on the same day or within a few days of registration.

Updating Legal Records

Once the death is officially recorded, you will need to inform various institutions and authorities about the passing. This includes:

Banks and financial institutions: To close accounts and handle financial matters.
Insurance companies: To file life insurance claims or handle other policies.
Social services: To update social security or pension records.
Utility companies: To terminate services or transfer accounts.
Funeral Arrangements: The registration of the death also affects funeral planning. You will need the death certificate to arrange for a burial or cremation, as it is a requirement for obtaining permits for these services.

How to Register a Death