It’s natural to feel unsure about what to do when someone dies, especially when there’s so much to think about. On top of the emotional weight, there are practical things you'll need to do, some of them quite quickly. One of the first is registering the death.
In this article, we’ll take you through the process, so you know what to expect along the way.
What does it mean to register a death?
Registering a death means officially recording the passing of someone with the local authorities. It creates a legal record and allows you to receive a death certificate, which you'll need to handle things like arranging a funeral, sorting out their estate, and informing government departments.
In the UK, the death must usually be registered within five days in England, Wales and Northern Ireland, or within eight days in Scotland. While each nation has small differences, the core steps are broadly the same.
Where to register a death
In most cases, the process must be done in person at the register office in the area where the death occurred. If you need to attend an appointment in person, feeling worried about becoming upset is completely normal. Registering a death is an emotional task, and it's not unusual to feel overwhelmed. Registrars are used to meeting people at difficult times, and the setting is generally calm and respectful.
Can I register a death online?
Most deaths must be registered in person at a register office. Some local authorities allow you to start the process online, such as booking an appointment or submitting basic details, but you will still need to attend in person with the right documents.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, temporary online measures were introduced, but these have largely ended.
Who can register a death in the UK?
Only certain people can register a death legally. In England, Wales and Northern Ireland, the following people are allowed to do it:
- A relative of the person who has died
- Someone present at the death
- An administrator from the hospital or care home
- The person arranging the funeral (but not the funeral director)
In Scotland, it's usually a family member, executor, or legal representative.
How soon do I need to register a death?
In England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, the death must be registered within five days. In Scotland, you have eight days, including weekends and bank holidays. If the coroner or procurator fiscal is involved (for example, after a sudden or unexplained death), registration may take longer. The registrar will advise you when you get in touch with them.
How to register a death step by step
If you're not sure where to begin, the following steps can help guide you through what to do and when to do it.
1. Get the medical certificate
A doctor (usually at a hospital or GP) will issue a Medical Certificate of Cause of Death (MCCD). You'll need this to register the death.
2. Contact the local register office
You must usually register the death in the district where it happened. Use the government website to find the local register office. If you cannot get to the local register office, you can use another one and register the death by declaration.
3. Make an appointment
Most register offices ask you to book an appointment. Some offer online booking, while others prefer a phone call.
4. Attend the appointment
Bring the medical certificate and other documents (more on that below)
5. Provide the required information
You'll need to share details about the person who died, including:
- Their full name (and any previous names)
- Date and place of birth
- Time of death
- Last address
- Occupation
- Marital status
- Name and occupation of their spouse or civil partner (if applicable)
- Whether they were getting a State Pension or any other benefits
The registrar will issue a death certificate and any other necessary documents.
What documents do you need to register a death?
You'll need the Medical Certificate of Cause of Death, plus as much of the following as you can provide:
- The deceased's birth certificate
- Their NHS medical card
- Their marriage or civil partnership certificate
- Proof of address (for example, a utility bill)
- Photo ID (passport or driving licence)
You might not be able to find everything. If so, let the register office know and they will advise you.
What happens after registration?
Once the death is registered, you'll receive:
- A death certificate – The legal proof of death.
- A Certificate for Burial or Cremation (also known as the 'green form') – Allowing you to arrange a funeral or apply for a cremation.
- A BD8 form (if applicable) – Used to inform the Department for Work and Pensions.
You can also ask the registrar to help you use the Tell Us Once service, which lets you notify several government departments in one go, including HMRC, the Passport Office, and the DVLA.
How to register a death abroad
If someone dies overseas, the first step is to register the death in the country where it happened. Local authorities will issue a death certificate. If the death certificate is not written in English, you'll need to get a certified translation.
In addition to the local registration, you can also register the death with UK authorities. This is optional, but it creates a UK-held record of the death with either the General Register Office or the National Records of Scotland (depending on where you live). If you decide to do so, you can request a consular death registration certificate for a fee. It's worth noting that you don't need to register the death with UK authorities to use services like Tell Us Once, but some people find it helpful to have the death formally recorded in the UK.
If you’re bringing your loved one home, the British embassy or consulate in the country where they died can help you with what to do next.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to register a death?
The appointment itself usually takes 30-45 minutes. You'll then get a death certificate and the documents you need to arrange a funeral and or cremation.
Who registers a death if there's no family?
If there's no family, the responsibility may fall to the hospital, care home, or someone arranging the funeral. A friend or neighbour can also do it, but they must be able to provide the necessary information.
Can a funeral or cremation happen before the death is registered?
No. First, you need to register the death and get the necessary paperwork (like the green form). Without this, a cremation or burial cannot legally proceed.
What if I miss the deadline to register a death?
If you can't register within the required timeframe, speak to your local register office as soon as possible. Delays are understandable, especially during times of shock or if a coroner is involved. The registrar will advise on the next steps.
What to do next
You might already have started thinking about a funeral, or this could be the next step. Take some time to consider what feels right for you and what your loved one might have wanted. For some, that means a traditional service; for others, it could be a quiet gathering or a celebration of life held somewhere meaningful.
If you're unsure what to do next, explore our guide on what to do when someone dies or get in touch with our team. We're here to help you every step of the way.
