What to do after someone dies
When someone has died there are lots of things that need to be done, at a time when you least feel like doing them.
Step by step guide
Go to GOV.UK: what to do when someone dies for a step-by-step guide to all the things that must be done – this includes getting a medical certificate, registering the death and arranging a funeral.
Tell us once
You may be able to use the government's Tell Us Once service to report a death to most government organisations and many council departments in one go.
Bereavement support
The death of a loved one can be among the most difficult moments that any of us will face in our lives, but help is available during times of bereavement. The following organisations offer advice and support.
| Organisation | Support |
|---|---|
| NHS |
The NHS provides advice on coping with bereavement. Go to NHS: coping with bereavement. |
| Cruse Bereavement Care |
Cruse Bereavement Care is a charity offering a range of support after the death of someone close. |
| Mind |
Mind, the mental health charity, offers bereavement support. Go to Mind: bereavement. |
Advice and support is also available from the organisations below if your experience bereavement during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.
| Organisation | Support |
|---|---|
| UK Government |
Information to help bereaved families, friends or next of kin make decisions during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. |
| Sudden |
Sudden is a charitable initiation that offers support for those coping with sudden bereavement, including from coronavirus (COVID-19). Go to Sudden: COVID-19 bereavement. |
| The Good Grief Trust |
The Good Grief Trust is run by the bereaved, for the bereaved. It offers support for loss due to coronavirus (COVID-19). |
Financial support
You may be able to get a Bereavement Support Payment from the government if your husband, wife or civil partner died in the last 21 months. You must claim within 3 months of your partner’s death to get the full amount. You can claim up to 21 months after their death but you’ll get fewer monthly payments.
Go to GOV.UK: Bereavement Support Payment.
You could get a Funeral Expenses Payment (also called a Funeral Payment) if you get certain benefits and need help to pay for a funeral you’re arranging.