What to do When Someone Has Died
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I'm so sorry for your loss. When someone dies, it can be difficult to know what to do first. This is a simple overview of what usually happens next in England and Wales.
1. The death is verified
What happens depends on where the person died — at home, in hospital, in a care home or hospice. The relevant healthcare professionals will explain what happens next.
2. Medical Examiner review
Most deaths are reviewed by an independent Medical Examiner before the death can be registered. The family can ask questions or raise concerns.
3. Register the death
Once you are told that the death can be registered, you arrange an appointment with the Register Office.
4. Tell Us Once
The registrar will explain the government's Tell Us Once service, which helps notify several government departments about the death.
5. Arrange the funeral
You can contact a funeral director before the death is registered. They can explain your options and begin making arrangements.
6. Deal with other organisations
You will eventually need to contact organisations such as banks, insurance companies, pension providers and utility companies.
Take one step at a time
You don't have to do everything today. Some things need to happen quickly; others can wait. The Funeral Companion is here to help you understand what happens next, one step at a time.