Bereavement Guide

Losing someone close to you is emotionally overwhelming, but beyond the grief, there are practical steps that need to be taken during this difficult time. Having a clear understanding of what you need to do can make the process less daunting. This bereavement guide provides a step-by-step outline to help you handle the key legal, financial, and administrative tasks.

Immediately After the Death

Handling organ or body donation

If the deceased expressed a wish to donate their organs or body to science, it’s essential to act quickly. Inform the medical staff as soon as possible to ensure the wishes can be fulfilled.

Obtaining the Medical Certificate of Cause of Death (MCCD)

This document is crucial for registering the death.

• If the person died in hospital: Hospital staff will arrange for the MCCD.
• If the death occurred at home: Contact the deceased’s GP. If the death was unexpected, call emergency services.
• If a coroner is involved: Sudden or unclear causes of death may require a coroner’s investigation, which could delay funeral arrangements until their work is completed.

Arranging care for the deceased

A funeral director can assist with arrangements, whether the deceased remains at home for a brief period or is transferred to a mortuary.

Informing people and organisations

Notify family and friends

Use the deceased’s phone contacts, address book, or social media accounts to inform close family and friends.

Use the Tell Us Once Service

The UK government provides a helpful free service that notifies key departments about the death. This service can inform organisations such as HMRC (for tax), the Department for Work and Pensions (for pensions and benefits), DVLA, Passport Office, and the local council.

You’ll receive a Tell Us Once reference number when registering the death, which makes this process simple and efficient.

Notify other organisations

You’ll also need to inform the following:

• Banks and building societies
• Mortgage and loan providers
• Pension providers
• Utility companies (gas, electricity, broadband, etc.)
• Insurance companies
• Subscription services
• Healthcare providers (GP, dentist, hospital)

Registering the death

Who can register the death?

Typically, the next of kin registers the death. If unavailable, anyone present at the death or responsible for funeral arrangements can do so.

Timeline and location

• England and Wales: Register within 5 days at the local register office near where the death occurred.
• Scotland: Registration must take place within 8 days.

Required documents

Bring the following when registering the death:

• The MCCD
• The deceased’s ID (if available, such as passport or driver’s license)
• Proof of address
• Any supporting documents like NHS cards, or marriage and birth certificates (these are helpful but not mandatory).

Documents you’ll receive

• Certified copies of the death certificate (get multiple copies as they will be needed for closing accounts, claiming insurance, etc.)
• Certificate for burial or cremation (the green form)
• Certificate of registration of death (used to notify DWP and benefits offices)

Locating the will

A key component in moving forward is identifying whether a will exists and if it is the most up-to-date version. A will often contains important details like funeral wishes and how the estate would be distributed.

Not sure if a will exists? Use The National Will Register to search for it.

Visit nationalwillregister.co.uk or call 0330 100 3660 for assistance.

Arranging the funeral

Check funeral wishes

Check the will or speak with close relatives to see if the deceased had specific wishes or pre-paid funeral plans.

Paying for the funeral

Options include:

• Requesting the bank to release funds directly to the funeral director.
• If you’re on certain benefits, you may qualify for financial help through the Social Fund.
• If there are no funds available, the local council may arrange a basic funeral.

Choosing a funeral director

Select a provider registered with the National Association of Funeral Directors. Don’t forget to compare prices and ask for a detailed cost breakdown.

Consider the funeral details

Key things to decide:

• Burial or cremation
• Type of service (religious, civil, or personal)
• Songs, readings, and speakers
• Flowers, dress code, and transport
• Whether to host a gathering or wake afterwards

Understanding probate

What is probate?

Probate is the legal process for dealing with the estate of someone who has passed away. This includes managing their assets, settling any debts, and distributing the inheritance.

When is probate needed?

If the deceased owned property, significant savings, or investments, probate will usually be required. Banks or financial institutions often ask for a grant of probate to release funds.

Who handles probate?

The will typically names the executor who is legally responsible for managing the estate. If no will exists, the next of kin is responsible.

What does the process include?

• Identifying and valuing assets and debts
• Applying for probate (or confirmation in Scotland)
• Paying any taxes and debts
• Distributing remaining assets according to the will (or intestacy laws if there is no will)

A solicitor can assist with probate if required.

Financial Support

If your spouse or civil partner has passed away, you may be eligible for support. Contact the DWP Bereavement Service to explore benefits like:

• Bereavement Support Payment
• Widowed Parent’s Allowance
• Guardian’s Allowance (if you are caring for children)

Special Considerations for Scotland

If the death occurred in Scotland, bear in mind:

• Deaths must be registered within 8 days.
• The legal process for estate administration is referred to as confirmation.
• Post-mortems and investigations may be handled by the procurator fiscal.
• For full official guidance, visit gov.scot.

Planning for Your Own Future

Losing a loved one may prompt reflection on your own future. Consider taking these steps:

• Write or update your will.
• Register your will with The National Will Register to ensure it can be easily found by your loved ones.
• Set up a lasting power of attorney to ensure someone can make decisions on your behalf if needed.

Helpful Contacts

Here are some useful organisations to guide you further:

• The National Will Register: nationalwillregister.co.uk
• Tell Us Once Service: gov.uk/tell-us-once
• Cruse Bereavement Support (grief counselling): cruse.org.uk
• Citizens Advice (debt and legal advice): citizensadvice.org.uk
• Age UK (older people’s support): ageuk.org.uk

For help with finding a will or understanding your next steps, call The National Will Register for free on 0330 100 3660.