Description
Dealing with the death of a loved one can be an overwhelming and emotional time. However, there are practical steps that need to be taken to ensure everything is handled correctly. Here is a comprehensive guide to the 20 key tasks to manage after someone passes away in the UK.
1. Notify a Doctor
If the death occurs at home, contact the person’s GP or call 111 to notify a medical professional. They will confirm the death and issue a medical certificate stating the cause of death.
2. Contact Emergency Services (if necessary)
If the death was sudden or unexpected, call 999 and ask for an ambulance and the police. The coroner may need to be involved to determine the cause of death.
3. Inform Close Family and Friends
Notify immediate family members and close friends. It can help to delegate this task to others if you find it too difficult to manage alone.
4. Register the Death
In England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, the death must be registered within five days. In Scotland, it’s eight days. Contact the local registry office to book an appointment. You’ll need the medical certificate and some personal details about the deceased.
5. Obtain Death Certificates
Purchase multiple copies of the death certificate. These will be required for legal and financial processes, such as closing accounts and managing the deceased’s estate.
6. Locate the Will
Find out if the deceased left a will. This document will outline their wishes for their estate and funeral arrangements. If you’re unsure, check with their solicitor.
7. Appoint an Executor
If the deceased named an executor in their will, inform them of their role. The executor is responsible for managing the estate, including distributing assets and settling debts.
8. Notify Relevant Authorities
Use the UK government’s Tell Us Once service to inform various government agencies of the death, such as HMRC, the Department for Work and Pensions, and the DVLA.
9. Cancel or Redirect Mail
To prevent identity theft and ensure no important documents are missed, set up a mail redirection service via Royal Mail.
10. Inform Banks and Financial Institutions
Notify the deceased’s bank, building society, and credit card companies. They will freeze accounts and guide you through the process of closing them or transferring ownership.
11. Contact Utility Providers
Inform utility providers (e.g., gas, electricity, water, broadband) and ensure bills are paid or accounts closed as necessary.
12. Arrange the Funeral
Contact a funeral director or plan the funeral yourself. Respect any wishes the deceased outlined in their will or advance funeral plan. You may also need to consider the cost and how it will be covered.
13. Deal with Property and Possessions
Secure the deceased’s home and belongings. If they rented their home, inform the landlord. Start sorting through their possessions, but take your time and involve family members where appropriate.
14. Settle Outstanding Debts
Compile a list of the deceased’s debts, such as mortgages, loans, or credit card balances. The executor will handle settling these from the estate.
15. Claim Life Insurance or Pensions
If the deceased had life insurance or a pension, contact the provider to initiate claims. You may need the death certificate and policy details.
16. Notify Employers
If the deceased was employed, inform their employer. Ask about any outstanding wages, pensions, or death-in-service benefits.
17. Close Social Media and Online Accounts
Close or memorialise the deceased’s social media profiles. Contact service providers to deactivate other online accounts, such as email or subscription services.
18. Apply for Probate
If the estate requires probate, apply through the HM Courts and Tribunals Service. This process grants the executor legal authority to manage the estate.
19. Distribute the Estate
Once all debts are paid, the executor distributes the remaining assets according to the will or, if no will exists, under intestacy rules.
20. Seek Support
Dealing with grief and managing practicalities can be overwhelming. Reach out to support groups, counselling services, or close friends and family for emotional and practical help.
Final Thoughts
Managing the aftermath of a death can be a complex and emotional process, but taking these steps in order can help ensure everything is handled properly. If you feel uncertain about any part of the process, don’t hesitate to seek professional guidance. By staying organised and seeking support, you can navigate this challenging time with greater ease.