What to do when someone passes away: Five essential steps

Losing a loved one is undoubtedly an emotional and overwhelming time. Here’s a guide to help you navigate the initial formalities during a difficult time:

1. Register the death

The first step is to register the death, which should be done within five days. A medical examiner will confirm the cause of death and then contact the person who reported the death to confirm it can be registered.  Typically, a relative or the person responsible for the funeral arrangements should contact the local registry office. They will provide you with all the necessary information for registration.

Once registered, you’ll receive a death certificate. It is wise to order several copies as you’ll need them later for dealing with the deceased’s affairs.

2. Use the 'Tell Us Once' service

Make use of the government’s ‘Tell Us Once’ service to notify various departments about the death. This service informs agencies like HM Revenue and Customs, the Department for Work and Pensions, the Passport Office, and the local council. Each department will register the death, and some may reach out regarding any over payments or refunds owed to the estate.

3. Arrange the funeral

During the appointment to register the death, you will be required to confirm whether the deceased will be buried or cremated. It is wise to check if the deceased had a funeral plan or expressed their wishes either informally or in a Will prior to the appointment to register the death.

Once you have registered the death, you’ll receive a green form that allows you to arrange the burial or cremation. You will be able to instruct a funeral director to arrange the funeral in accordance with the deceased’s wishes.

4. Check for a Will

Many people share the location of their Will with close family and friends. If you’re unsure, start by searching the property or contacting solicitors who may have assisted in drafting the Will. If you still can’t locate the Will, consider arranging a Certainty Will search through The National Wills Register.

Regardless of whether a Will exists, a solicitor can guide you through the necessary processes, clarify the tax position, advise on trusts and assist with applying for the Grant of Probate.

5. Secure the assets

Lastly, securing the deceased’s assets is crucial. Reach out to banks, building societies, and investment companies to inform them of the death. Once they receive the death certificate, these institutions will freeze any accounts, cancel direct debits, and provide you with a date of death statement along with instructions for closing the account.

Another crucial step would be to make sure that the deceased’s home insurance company has been notified of the death, especially if this means that the deceased’s property is now unoccupied.

If you need advice or assistance please contact a member of our Private Wealth & Succession team who are well placed to advise.