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Guide to what to do after a death
After someone close to you dies, you may need to contact people and organisations, complete certain documents, arrange a funeral and deal with financial matters and possessions. Also, if you were close to the person who has died, you may feel you need some support or someone to talk to.
What to do first after a death
When someone dies, certain people and organisations need to be told and certain documents completed. Some of these things can be done by a close relative or friend; others need to be done by the executor or administrator of the deceased's estate.
Arranging a funeral
A funeral can be either by burial or by cremation. You can organise it with or without the help of a funeral director, and personalise it as much as you wish. In some cases the deceased may have planned their own funeral in advance.
Registering a death
You normally need to register a person's death within five days. Once you've done so, you'll be given a death certificate, which may be needed by the executor or administrator when sorting out the deceased person's affairs. Registration may also be delayed if it is referred to a coroner.
Documents and information needed when someone dies
A checklist of the documents and information that need to be gathered together and who to notify after someone dies.
Organ donation
You will have to act quickly if it was the wish of the deceased or the nearest relative to donate the organs for transplant, or the whole body for medical teaching purposes.
Paying for a funeral
It's worth making sure that there's enough money available to cover the cost of any funeral you may be responsible for arranging.
When someone dies abroad
When someone dies abroad, the death may seem more distressing because of the complications of being away from home and dealing with strangers, but you can get help from the British authorities in the UK and overseas.
Advice, support and comfort for the bereaved
Apart from general advice and support from, for example, doctors, solicitors and social services, there are many organisations that can offer help according to your particular circumstances.
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