Note: The following scenario is fictional and used for illustration.
Emma Thompson, 42, from Manchester, received the call every adult child dreads. Her father David, 68, had died suddenly from a heart attack at home on Tuesday morning. Within hours, she was fielding calls from the funeral director, her father's workplace pension, and confused siblings asking "what happens now?"
Emma knew she had to register her father's death, but she had no idea where to start. Which register office should she contact? What documents did she need? Could she even register it legally—her mother had died years earlier, and David never remarried. And somewhere in the back of her mind, she remembered something about a five-day deadline.
Emma's situation isn't unique. In 2024, 568,613 deaths were registered in England and Wales, and most families face the same questions Emma did. With the new Medical Examiner system introduced in September 2024, the median time to register a death is now 8 days—up from 6 days previously—which means understanding the updated process matters more than ever.
This guide walks you through exactly how to register a death in the UK, who can do it, what documents you need, and what to expect from the new Medical Examiner system.
Table of Contents
- Understanding the 5-Day Deadline (And When It Doesn't Apply)
- The New Medical Examiner System (Since September 2024)
- Who Is Legally Allowed to Register a Death?
- What Documents and Information You'll Need
- How to Book a Death Registration Appointment
- What Happens During the Registration Appointment
- What You'll Receive: Death Certificates and the Tell Us Once Service
- If the Death Was Referred to the Coroner
- Death Registration Across the UK: England, Wales, Scotland, Northern Ireland
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion
- Related Articles
Understanding the 5-Day Deadline (And When It Doesn't Apply)
When someone dies in England, Wales, or Northern Ireland, you must register the death within 5 days. This legal requirement comes from the Births and Deaths Registration Act 1953.
Here's what's changed: since 9 September 2024, the 5-day countdown starts when the Medical Examiner notifies you that the death can be registered—not from the date of death itself. This is a crucial update that gives families a bit more breathing room.
The five days includes weekends and bank holidays. If you're worried about meeting the deadline, contact your local register office as soon as possible. Registrars understand you're under stress and can grant an additional 9 days if the Medical Certificate has already been issued.
The 5-day rule doesn't apply in two important situations. First, if a coroner is investigating the death, you must wait until their investigation is complete before registering—there's no time limit in these cases. Second, Scotland follows different rules with an 8-day deadline instead of 5.
Sarah's mother died on a Monday. The Medical Examiner reviewed the medical records and approved the Medical Certificate of Cause of Death on Wednesday. Sarah's 5-day deadline started on Wednesday—meaning she had until the following Monday to register. When she called the register office on Thursday and couldn't get an appointment until the following Tuesday, the registrar noted her early contact and assured her this wouldn't be a problem.
In contrast, James's father died suddenly, and the death was referred to the coroner for investigation. James couldn't register the death until the coroner completed a post-mortem examination four months later. The 5-day rule never applied to him.
Of the 568,613 deaths registered in England and Wales in 2024, 92.3% were registered in the same year they occurred. The remaining 7.7% experienced delays, often due to coroner investigations. The median registration delay for coroner-certified deaths is 26 days—significantly longer than doctor-certified deaths.
You have time, and extensions are available. If you genuinely can't register within 5 days, communicate with your register office. In practice, bereaved families aren't penalised for missing the deadline when they've made a reasonable effort to comply.
The New Medical Examiner System (Since September 2024)
Since 9 September 2024, all deaths in England and Wales must be reviewed by a Medical Examiner before registration (unless a coroner is involved). This independent scrutiny replaced the old system where GPs could certify deaths without additional oversight.
The Medical Examiner system was first proposed by the Shipman Inquiry in 2003, following the case of Harold Shipman, a GP who murdered hundreds of patients. The reforms create independent scrutiny of cause of death, improve accuracy, and help detect poor medical practice or criminal activity.
Here's how it works now. First, the attending doctor completes a Medical Certificate of Cause of Death (MCCD). Second, an independent Medical Examiner reviews the MCCD and the deceased's medical records. Third, the Medical Examiner contacts bereaved family members to discuss the cause of death and answer questions. Fourth, once the Medical Examiner approves the cause of death, they send the MCCD to the register office. Finally, the family is notified that registration can proceed.
Between 9 September 2024 and 30 June 2025, 454,898 deaths occurred under the new system. Of these, 85% were certified by doctors (with Medical Examiner scrutiny), while 15% involved coroner investigations.
The Medical Examiner review adds about 2 days to the registration timeline. The median time to register deaths certified by doctors increased from 6 days to 8 days after the system was introduced. While this might sound like an inconvenience, it provides important benefits.
When the Medical Examiner called Emma about her father's death, they confirmed he died from a myocardial infarction (heart attack). Emma asked whether her father had suffered, and the Medical Examiner explained the heart attack was sudden and he likely lost consciousness within seconds. Emma also asked whether anything could have prevented it. The Medical Examiner reviewed David's medical history and confirmed he'd had regular check-ups and was on appropriate medication for his blood pressure. This conversation gave Emma reassurance during a difficult time.
This is not an investigation or suspicion of wrongdoing—it's routine for all deaths. The Medical Examiner conversation is an opportunity, not an obligation. Families can decline to speak with the Medical Examiner if they prefer, though most find it helpful.
The system helps families understand cause of death more clearly, provides an opportunity to raise concerns about medical care, and ensures death certificates are accurate. While it adds a couple of days to the process, the independent scrutiny benefits both families and the healthcare system.
Who Is Legally Allowed to Register a Death?
You don't have to be the executor or next of kin to register a death. The law provides a clear hierarchy of who can act as the informant—the person who registers the death.
A relative is the first choice. This includes spouses, civil partners, children, parents, siblings, or other blood or marriage relatives. Same-sex spouses and civil partners have equal rights to register. Any relative can do it—it doesn't have to be the eldest child or closest relative.
Here's an important point: unmarried partners are not automatically considered "relatives" for registration purposes. If you lived with someone for 20 years but weren't married or in a civil partnership, you can't register their death as a relative. Another qualified person must do it.
If no relative is available, several other people can register the death. Someone who was present when the death occurred can register. The occupier of the premises where the death occurred can register—this might be a care home manager or hospital administrator. The person arranging the funeral can register, though funeral directors typically advise rather than register themselves.
David died unmarried with no children. His brother Tom lived 200 miles away but was still a relative, so Tom could legally register the death. Tom didn't need to be David's executor or main beneficiary—being a sibling was enough.
Margaret died in a care home, and her only child lived in Australia and couldn't travel on short notice. The care home manager registered the death as the occupier of the premises where Margaret died. Margaret's daughter was grateful she didn't have to make emergency travel arrangements while grieving.
James and his partner Lisa lived together for 15 years but never married. When James died suddenly, Lisa discovered she couldn't register his death because they weren't legally married or in a civil partnership. James's sister had to register instead. This situation highlights an unfair aspect of the law, but it's the current legal reality.
You have options. If you're too overwhelmed to attend the registration appointment, another qualified relative can do it instead. You don't have to be the executor or main decision-maker—any relative can handle this task.
What Documents and Information You'll Need
The only document the registrar absolutely must have is the Medical Certificate of Cause of Death (MCCD) issued by the Medical Examiner. In most cases, the Medical Examiner sends this directly to the register office electronically, so you may not need to bring it yourself.
Several other documents are helpful but not required. Bringing the deceased's birth certificate helps confirm their date and place of birth. Their NHS medical card, passport, or driving licence can help verify identity. If they were married or in a civil partnership, bring the marriage or civil partnership certificate. A utility bill or council tax statement can confirm their last address. Details of any pensions or benefits they received will be useful for the Tell Us Once service later.
The registrar will ask you to provide specific information about the deceased. You'll need their full name, including maiden name if applicable. You'll need their date and place of birth, date and place of death, and last usual address. You'll need to provide their occupation—current if they were working, most recent if retired, or simply "retired" if they hadn't worked for many years.
If the deceased was married or in a civil partnership, you'll need their spouse or partner's name and occupation. If they were widowed, you'll need their late spouse's name and occupation. You should also provide their NHS number if known, and confirm whether they were receiving State Pension or benefits.
Some register offices now offer phone appointments, which means you might need electronic copies of documents rather than physical originals. Check your local register office website for specific requirements.
Emma brought her father's birth certificate, NHS medical card, and his marriage certificate to her late mother. She didn't have his exact date of birth memorised, but the birth certificate confirmed it. The registrar asked about David's last job (he was a retired teacher) and whether he was receiving State Pension (he was). Emma had printed out a list of all the information before the appointment, which helped her stay organised despite her grief.
Don't panic if you don't have everything. Registrars are experienced at working with incomplete documentation. Some information can be confirmed verbally if documents are lost.
Two common mistakes: you don't need the will for death registration—that's for probate later. And if possible, bring original documents rather than photocopies, though registrars can usually work with copies if that's all you have.
How to Book a Death Registration Appointment
Deaths must be registered in the district where the death occurred—not where the deceased lived or where you live. If the death occurred at home, register in the district covering that address. If it happened in hospital, register in the district where the hospital is located.
Scotland is more flexible: you can register in the district where the death occurred or where the deceased normally lived.
Most register offices now require appointments rather than accepting walk-ins. You can usually book online through your local register office website, call them directly, or in some areas, visit in person. Many offices can schedule appointments within 1-2 days, though busy urban areas might need 3-5 days.
When you call to book, confirm that you have Medical Examiner approval—the register office may check with the Medical Examiner's office before scheduling your appointment. Ask whether the appointment can be in-person or if phone options are available. Confirm what documents you should bring or send electronically. Ask how long the appointment will take—typically 30-40 minutes.
Register offices operate Monday to Friday, with limited Saturday appointments in some areas. They're closed on bank holidays. If your 5-day deadline falls on a weekend or bank holiday, contact the registrar to discuss your options.
Book your appointment as soon as possible after the Medical Examiner notifies you. Don't wait until day 4 of the 5-day window. Bring a support person if you'd like—most register offices allow someone to accompany you for emotional support. Plan to arrive 10 minutes early, and you'll be seen in a private room rather than at a public desk.
To find your local register office, use the GOV.UK postcode search for England and Wales, check your local council's "Register a death" section, or ask your funeral director for guidance.
Emma's father died at Manchester Royal Infirmary, so Emma booked an appointment at Manchester Register Office through their online booking system. She got an appointment two days later, well within the 5-day window. She asked her sister to come with her for support.
Tom's mother died at home in rural Wales. Tom called the register office and got an appointment four days later. Because the Medical Examiner had already issued the certificate, the registrar confirmed Tom was within the allowed timeframe (5 days plus up to 9 days extension if needed).
If you can't get an appointment within 5 days, contact the registrar to explain your situation. They can note that you tried to book promptly and won't penalise you for delays outside your control.
What Happens During the Registration Appointment
The registrar will see you in a private room, not at a public desk. This respects your grief and gives you privacy for what can be an emotional conversation. The appointment typically lasts 30-40 minutes. The registrar will introduce themselves and explain what will happen.
First, they'll verify your identity and confirm you're legally qualified to register the death. They'll ask your relationship to the deceased and confirm you meet the criteria we discussed earlier.
Second, they'll review the Medical Certificate of Cause of Death from the Medical Examiner. They'll confirm the cause of death is clear and properly documented.
Third, they'll collect detailed information about the deceased—their full name, dates and places of birth and death, last address, occupation, marital status, and spouse details if applicable. They'll also ask for their NHS number and National Insurance number if you have them.
Fourth, they'll answer your questions about what happens next and clarify anything you don't understand about the process.
Fifth, they'll complete the registration by entering all details into the official register. You'll sign the register to confirm the information is correct to the best of your knowledge. For phone appointments, you'll provide a digital signature.
Finally, they'll issue the documents you need: death certificates (you'll specify how many), the Certificate for Burial or Cremation (the green form your funeral director needs), and a Tell Us Once reference number.
The registrar will ask straightforward questions: "What was the deceased's full name?" "What was their date and place of birth?" "What was their occupation?" "Were they married or in a civil partnership?" "How many death certificates do you need?"
Registrars are trained in bereavement support. They won't rush you. It's okay to pause if you need a moment, bring tissues, take a break, or ask questions. Your support person can help you remember details if you're struggling.
Emma's appointment took 35 minutes. The registrar confirmed her father died from myocardial infarction, asked about his teaching career, and explained the green Certificate for Burial or Cremation was what the funeral director needed. The registrar advised Emma that "6-10 death certificates is typical for estate administration," and Emma decided to order 8.
Write down key information beforehand—dates, spellings, occupations—so you don't forget under stress. Ask the registrar to slow down if you're struggling to follow. Most importantly, confirm spellings on all certificates before you leave the appointment. Correcting mistakes later is much harder.
What You'll Receive: Death Certificates and the Tell Us Once Service
The registrar will give you several important documents at the end of your appointment.
Certificate for Burial or Cremation (green form): This is official permission for the funeral to proceed. Give it to your funeral director immediately. It's free and included in the registration process.
Death certificates (certified copies): These are official copies of the death registration. You'll need them for banks, insurance companies, pension providers, probate applications, property transfers, DVLA, and other organisations settling the deceased's affairs.
In England and Wales, death certificates cost £12.50 each at registration. If you order them later, they cost £11 each through the standard service or £35 for priority next-day delivery. In Scotland, certificates cost £10 each. In Northern Ireland, they cost £8 each.
Most people need 6-10 death certificates. Common uses include one or two for each bank or building society, one per life insurance policy, one per pension provider, one for the probate registry, one for property transfers or Land Registry, one for DVLA if transferring vehicle ownership, copies for share registrars or investment accounts, and one for the deceased's employer if claiming final pay or death-in-service benefits.
Order all the certificates you think you'll need at registration. At £12.50 each, it's cheaper than the £35 priority service later. Some organisations accept photocopies after they've seen an original, so you can ask before ordering extras.
Emma ordered 8 certificates for £100 total (8 × £12.50). She used them for her father's bank (which had two branches), his life insurance policy, his teacher's pension, the probate registry, Land Registry for the house transfer, and DVLA for his car. She had one certificate left over as a backup.
Certificate of Registration of Death (Form BD8): This form is for claiming bereavement benefits from the Department for Work and Pensions. It's issued automatically if applicable, at no charge.
Tell Us Once reference number: This unique code lets you access the Tell Us Once service, which we'll explain in detail now.
Tell Us Once Service
Tell Us Once is a free government service that lets you report a death to multiple government departments in a single notification. Instead of calling HMRC, DWP, DVLA, and other agencies separately, you tell them all at once.
Tell Us Once notifies HMRC (for tax and National Insurance), DWP (for State Pension and benefits), DVLA (driving licence), Passport Office, your local council (for Council Tax, Housing Benefit, Blue Badge, and electoral register), and some public sector pension schemes.
The registrar gives you a unique reference number plus the deceased's date of death. Within 28 days, you go to GOV.UK Tell Us Once or call 0800 085 7308. You provide the reference number and answer questions about the deceased's circumstances. Tell Us Once notifies all relevant departments within 24-48 hours.
You'll need the reference number from the registrar, the deceased's National Insurance number, details of any benefits or pensions they received, their driving licence number and passport number if applicable, and Council Tax account number if known.
Tell Us Once saves hours of phone calls and form-filling. It reduces the risk of missed notifications—for example, State Pension continuing to pay after death, which you'd have to repay later. The service has a 92% customer satisfaction rating and prevents costly overpayments.
Tell Us Once does not notify private companies. You must still contact banks, insurance companies, utility providers, the deceased's employer, landlord or mortgage provider, and TV Licensing separately.
Tell Us Once is available in England, Wales, and Scotland. It's not currently available in Northern Ireland, where you must contact each government department individually.
Emma used her Tell Us Once reference online the day after registration. She entered her father's National Insurance number, driving licence, and State Pension details. Within two days, DVLA, Passport Office, HMRC, and Manchester City Council were all notified. Emma still had to contact David's bank and life insurance company separately.
Is Tell Us Once mandatory? No, it's optional, but highly recommended. What if you miss the 28-day deadline? You'll have to contact each department individually. Will you get confirmation it worked? Tell Us Once sends a confirmation email or letter, and individual departments may also write to you confirming they've updated their records.
If the Death Was Referred to the Coroner
Some deaths must be investigated by a coroner before they can be registered. The 5-day registration deadline does not apply when a coroner is involved—you must wait until their investigation is complete.
Deaths are referred to the coroner when the cause of death is unknown or uncertain, death was sudden and unexplained, death was violent, unnatural, or suspicious, death occurred during surgery or a medical procedure, death may be linked to industrial disease or workplace accident, the doctor hadn't seen the deceased within 28 days before death (in some circumstances), or death occurred in prison or police custody.
When a death is referred to the coroner, here's what happens. First, the coroner's officer contacts the family to explain the process and answer questions. Second, the coroner may order a post-mortem examination to determine cause of death. Third, if needed, the coroner holds an inquest—a public hearing to establish the facts of the death. Finally, once the investigation is complete, the coroner issues a certificate allowing registration to proceed.
Coroner investigations typically take 3-9 months, though complex cases can take 12 months or longer. The median registration delay for deaths involving coroners is 26 days, though this figure includes straightforward cases. Inquests can take much longer. The Chief Coroner reviews investigations that exceed one year to identify and address delays.
The 5-day registration deadline does not apply when a coroner is involved. Registration cannot proceed until the coroner completes their investigation. The funeral is usually delayed, though coroners can sometimes release the body for burial or cremation before the inquest concludes.
While waiting for the coroner, you may be able to obtain an interim document called a Coroner's Certificate of the Fact of Death. This isn't the same as a death certificate, but some financial institutions and government departments accept it for administrative purposes. Not all organisations accept interim certificates—some require the full death certificate. The interim certificate is free if you request it from the coroner's office.
What can you do while waiting? Stay in contact with the coroner's office for updates on progress. Notify some organisations using the interim certificate if they accept it. Begin gathering estate documents, even if probate can't start until registration is complete. Arrange the funeral if the coroner has released the body.
After the coroner investigation completes, the coroner notifies the registrar of their findings. You'll be contacted to register the death following the normal process described earlier. The death certificate will note "Inquest held [date]" or "Post-mortem held."
Tom's mother died suddenly at home with no recent GP visits. The coroner ordered a post-mortem examination and determined she died from natural causes—heart failure. The investigation took six weeks. Tom registered the death once the coroner issued the certificate. He used the interim certificate to notify his mother's bank, which accepted it, but her pension provider required the full death certificate and Tom had to wait.
James's brother died in a workplace accident. The coroner held a full inquest nine months later to investigate whether safety failures contributed to the death. James couldn't register the death until the inquest concluded. The delay was frustrating, but James understood the coroner needed time to investigate thoroughly and make safety recommendations to prevent similar accidents.
Coroner investigations are distressing. You're waiting for answers while grieving, and the uncertainty is difficult. Coroner's offices have family liaison officers who can provide updates. Charities like Inquest support families through the coroner process. Remember that delays, while frustrating, ensure thorough investigation.
Can you refuse a post-mortem? No—the coroner has legal authority to order one. Will you have to attend the inquest? You're not required to attend, but you can if you wish. You can ask questions and, if needed, have legal representation. What if the coroner finds something unexpected? The coroner will inform you before the inquest. You can have a lawyer represent your interests if the findings are complex or contentious.
Death Registration Across the UK: England, Wales, Scotland, Northern Ireland
Unless stated otherwise, this article focuses on the death registration process in England and Wales. Scotland and Northern Ireland follow different rules in some important areas.
Here's a quick comparison:
| Aspect | England & Wales | Scotland | Northern Ireland |
|---|---|---|---|
| Registration Deadline | 5 days | 8 days | 5 days |
| Medical Examiner System | Yes (since 9 Sept 2024) | No | No |
| Death Certificate Cost | £12.50 at registration, £11 later, £35 priority | £10 | £8 |
| Tell Us Once Available? | Yes | Yes | No |
| Registration Location | District where death occurred | District where death occurred OR deceased lived | District where death occurred |
England and Wales
England and Wales follow the Births and Deaths Registration Act 1953, which requires registration within 5 days from Medical Examiner notification. All deaths are now reviewed by Medical Examiners before registration since 9 September 2024.
The registrar issues a green Certificate for Burial or Cremation, death certificates at £12.50 each, Form BD8 for bereavement benefits if applicable, and a Tell Us Once reference number. The Tell Us Once service is available and highly recommended.
Scotland
Scotland requires registration within 8 days—three extra days compared to England and Wales. You have more flexibility about where to register: you can use the district where the death occurred or the district where the deceased normally lived.
Scotland doesn't currently use the Medical Examiner system. It has a different death certification process, though reforms are being considered. Scottish registrars issue a white Certificate of Registration of Death (not the green certificate used in England and Wales). Death certificates cost £10 per copy. Tell Us Once is available in Scotland.
Northern Ireland
Northern Ireland follows the same 5-day registration deadline as England and Wales. It doesn't use the Medical Examiner system—Northern Ireland has a separate death certification process.
Death certificates are the cheapest in the UK at £8 per copy. Tell Us Once is not available in Northern Ireland. Bereaved families must contact each government department separately—HMRC, DWP, DVLA, and others all need individual notification. The register office for Northern Ireland is the General Register Office Northern Ireland (GRONI).
Cross-Border Deaths
Where you register depends on where the death occurred, not where the deceased lived or where you live. If a Welsh person dies in an English hospital, register in England following English rules. If someone usually resident in England dies while visiting Scotland, register in Scotland following Scottish rules.
Emma's father died in Manchester, England. Emma followed the England and Wales process: 5-day deadline (from Medical Examiner notification), Medical Examiner review before registration, Tell Us Once available, and death certificates at £12.50 each.
If Emma's father had died in Edinburgh, Scotland, the process would be different: 8-day deadline instead of 5, no Medical Examiner review, Emma could register in Edinburgh or in the district where her father normally lived, Tell Us Once would still be available, and death certificates would cost £10 each instead of £12.50.
If he'd died in Belfast, Northern Ireland, Emma would face a 5-day deadline with no Medical Examiner system, no Tell Us Once service (requiring individual contact with all government departments), and death certificates at £8 each.
For Scotland-specific guidance, visit National Records of Scotland. For Northern Ireland, visit General Register Office Northern Ireland (GRONI).
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long do I have to register a death in the UK?
A: You must register a death within 5 days in England, Wales and Northern Ireland (8 days in Scotland). This deadline starts when the Medical Examiner notifies you that the death can be registered. If a coroner is investigating the death, the 5-day rule doesn't apply—you must wait until the coroner's investigation is complete.
Q: Who is legally allowed to register a death?
A: A relative is the first choice to register a death, including spouses, civil partners, children, or parents. If no relative is available, someone present at the death, the person arranging the funeral, a hospital administrator (for hospital deaths), or the occupier of the premises where death occurred can register it.
Q: What documents do I need to register a death?
A: You'll need the Medical Certificate of Cause of Death (MCCD) issued by the Medical Examiner. It's helpful (but not required) to bring the deceased's birth certificate, NHS medical card, passport, marriage or civil partnership certificate, and details of any pensions or benefits they received.
Q: How much does it cost to register a death and get death certificates?
A: Registering a death is free. Death certificates cost £12.50 at registration in England and Wales (£11 if ordered later, £35 priority service). In Scotland certificates cost £10, and in Northern Ireland £8. Most people need 6-10 copies for banks, insurance companies, and estate administration.
Q: What is the Tell Us Once service and how does it work?
A: Tell Us Once is a free government service that lets you report a death to multiple government departments in one go, including HMRC, DWP, DVLA, and Passport Office. The registrar gives you a unique reference number to use the service online or by phone within 28 days of registration. It has a 92% customer satisfaction rating.
Q: What happens if the death is referred to the coroner?
A: If a coroner is investigating the death, you cannot register it until their investigation is complete. The 5-day registration deadline doesn't apply. Coroner investigations typically take 3-9 months but can take longer for complex cases. The median delay for coroner-certified deaths is 26 days.
Q: What is the Medical Examiner system and how does it affect death registration?
A: Since 9 September 2024, all deaths in England and Wales must be reviewed by a Medical Examiner before registration. This independent scrutiny replaced the old system where GPs could certify deaths. The Medical Examiner reviews the cause of death and speaks with bereaved families, adding about 2 days to the registration timeline (median now 8 days vs 6 days previously).
Conclusion
Registering a death is one of many administrative tasks you'll face while grieving, but it's manageable. Here are the key points to remember:
- Act quickly but don't panic: You have 5 days from Medical Examiner notification (8 days in Scotland), and register offices understand you're under stress. Extensions are available if you need them.
- Gather documents early: The Medical Certificate is required (usually sent directly to the register office). Birth certificates, NHS cards, and marriage certificates are helpful but not essential.
- Book your appointment as soon as possible: Contact the register office for the district where the death occurred as soon as the Medical Examiner approves registration.
- Order enough death certificates: Most people need 6-10 copies at £12.50 each in England and Wales. It's cheaper to order everything you need at registration than to order more later.
- Use Tell Us Once: This free service notifies government departments in one go and has a 92% satisfaction rating. It saves hours of phone calls and prevents overpayments you'd have to repay later.
The registration system is designed to support you, and registrars understand you're going through a difficult time. If you're overwhelmed, ask a relative to attend with you or register on your behalf—you don't have to do it alone.
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Related Articles
- What to Do When Someone Dies: Complete UK Checklist - Everything else you need to do after a death
- How to Apply for Probate in the UK - What happens after death registration
- Intestacy Rules in the UK: What Happens If You Die Without a Will - If the deceased didn't have a will
- Do I Need a Will? 7 Reasons Why Everyone Needs One - Protecting your own family from this process
- How to Choose an Executor for Your Will - Picking someone to handle your affairs
- Death in Service Benefits Explained: What UK Employees Need to Know
- Deed of Variation: How to Change a Will After Death
- How to Cancel or Change an LPA in the UK (2026 Guide)
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Legal Disclaimer:
This article provides general information only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. WUHLD is not a law firm and does not provide legal advice. Laws and guidance change and their application depends on your circumstances. For advice about your situation, consult a qualified solicitor or regulated professional. Unless stated otherwise, information relates to England and Wales.
Sources:
- Births and Deaths Registration Act 1953 - legislation.gov.uk
- Death Certification Reform and the Introduction of Medical Examiners - GOV.UK
- Register a Death - GOV.UK
- Death Registration Summary Statistics, England and Wales: 2024 - Office for National Statistics
- Death Certification Reform, England and Wales: 9 September 2024 to 30 June 2025 (Provisional Data) - Office for National Statistics
- Impact of Registration Delays on Mortality Statistics in England and Wales: 2022 - Office for National Statistics
- Order a Birth, Death, Marriage or Civil Partnership Certificate - GOV.UK
- Tell Us Once - GOV.UK
- Registering a Death - National Records of Scotland
- Registering a Death - NI Direct