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Registering
A Death

Registering a death is one of the only elements of the funeral planning process that your funeral director cannot do for you. Here is a simple guide on how to register a death. Please do get in touch with us if you need advice or guidance…

Registering A Death

Who Can Register The Death

A relative or executor
A person who was present at the death
The occupier of the premises where the death occurred
The person arranging for the funeral.

When Do I Register A Death?

A death normally needs to be registered within five days, unless the Coroner is investigating the circumstances relating to the death. In certain situations, the five-day period can be extended.

Where do I register the death?

Contact a registry office to register the death. You can contact any registry office, but it will be quicker if you use the one in the area where the person died. Our staff will be more than happy to advise you on where you must go to do this, and if needed will make the appointment for you.

What Information Do I Need To Register A Death?

The Medical Certificate of Cause of Death (MCCD) issued by the doctor
Birth certificate
Council tax bill
Driving licence
Marriage/civil partnership certificate
NHS medical card
Passport
Proof of address e.g. utility bill

What If I Do Not Have Any Of These Documents?

Ask the registry office what to do if you do not have any of the above.

Use The Government Tell Us Once Service

When you register a death, we recommend that you take advantage of the new “Tell Us Once” scheme, that lets you report a death to most government organisations in one go.

What Happens When I Go To Register A Death?

The registrar will interview you in private to gather the following information for the register:

The person’s full name at the time of death
Any names previously used, e.g. maiden name
The person’s date and place of birth
Their last address
Their occupation
The full name, date of birth and occupation of a surviving or late spouse or civil partner
Whether they were getting a State Pension or any other benefits

What Happens On Completion Of The Registration?

You will be issued with:

A ‘green form’ which enables you to arrange the funeral (however, if the Coroner is involved different procedures may apply). This is issued free of charge.
A form for social security purposes. This is also issued free of charge.
You may also purchase certified copies of the entry (death certificates) at the time of registration at a cost of £11.00 each.

Uniquely Helpful...

Registering
A Death