Death Certificates
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What is a death certificate?
A death certificate is an official certified copy of the entry made in the death register. It records important details about the person who has died and is accepted by many organisations as legal proof of death.
Why might I need one?
You may be asked to provide a certified copy of the death certificate when dealing with:
- Banks and building societies
- Insurance companies
- Pension providers
- Solicitors
- Probate applications
- Investment companies
- Utility providers
- Mortgage lenders
- Other organisations managing the person's affairs
Not every organisation will require a paper copy. Some may be able to verify the death electronically or use other methods to update their records.
How many copies should I buy?
There isn't a set number that everyone needs. The number of certified copies you'll require depends on the person's circumstances, such as how many banks, pensions, investments or other organisations they dealt with.
Some families only need one or two copies, while others may need several. If you're unsure, ask the registrar about the current cost of additional copies.
Are photocopies accepted?
Most organisations require either an original certified copy or will verify the death electronically. A standard photocopy or scanned copy is not usually accepted as legal proof of death unless the organisation specifically confirms that it will accept one.
What if there's a mistake on the certificate?
If you think there is an error on the death certificate, contact the Register Office as soon as possible.
Many organisations will return certificates once they have updated their records.