What to do when someone dies
The first steps after a death, in order – the medical certificate, registering, calling a funeral director and dealing with the estate, with timings.
What to do when someone dies: common questions
We have created a number of guides providing answers some of the common questions we're asked after a loved one has died - from what you'll need to do, who to notify and what certain phrases you may hear mean
- What is a Coroner / Procurator Fiscal?
- What happens if my loved one was an organ donor?
- What is Embalming?
- Should I visit the Chapel of Rest?
- How do I repatriate a body?
- How do I tell people about the death?
- How do I handle their finances?
- Which organisations should I notify?
- How do I deal with social media accounts?
- 15 September 2026
Other useful guides
We have created several useful guides to help - from information about what to do when someone dies to planning a funeral, to the key things to think about after the funeral.
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- Included:Over 200 years of caring for families
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- Included:Funerals, plans, probate and more
Frequently asked questions
We’re here to answer all your questions. If anything isn’t clear, please ask us.
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Related guides
Read more about arranging and paying for a funeral.
How to register a death
How to register a death in England, Wales and Northern Ireland: the deadline, where to go, who can do it, what to take and the certificate you receive.
Who to notify after a death
A checklist of everyone to tell after a death, in order – family and the GP first, then property and bills, government departments and financial providers.