What to Do When Someone Dies: A Practical Guide

Losing someone is never easy. But dealing with the admin after a death shouldn't be overwhelming. Farra guides you through calmly, clearly, and step by step.

Get a medical certificate of cause of death

This is the very first step in the process. Without it, you won’t be able to register the death or begin any official arrangements. If the person died in hospital, staff will usually issue the certificate automatically. If the death happened at home, contact their GP or the emergency services. Once a doctor has confirmed the cause of death, they’ll issue the certificate. Keep this document safe—you’ll need it for everything that follows.

Register the death

In the UK, a death must be registered within 5 days (8 in Scotland). You’ll need to make an appointment with the local register office in the area where the person died. Take the medical certificate, along with ID documents like a passport or birth certificate if available. The registrar will give you:

• The death certificate (ask for multiple copies)
• A certificate for burial or cremation
• A Tell Us Once reference (to notify government departments)

Registering the death is free, but there’s a charge for copies of the certificate.

Arrange the funeral

Planning the funeral can feel emotional and urgent. Start by checking if the deceased left any wishes—in a will, letter, or even a conversation. Did they want a burial or cremation? A religious service? A direct cremation with no ceremony? Some people have pre-paid plans. If not, a funeral director can walk you through the options. They’ll typically need the death certificate and your preferences.

If money is tight, don’t worry. You can explore simpler options or apply for help (see below). Farra can support you with templates and suggestions.

Notify relevant organisations

Once the death is registered, it’s time to let organisations know. This can feel endless—but Farra helps you keep track. Start with the Tell Us Once service, which informs government bodies like:

• HMRC (tax)
• DVLA (driving licence)
• Passport Office
• DWP (benefits and pensions)

Then notify others: banks, utilities, landlords, insurers, subscription services, care providers. A checklist and templated letters can speed this up.

Deal with the estate

If the person left a will, the executor applies for probate—legal authority to manage their affairs. This means closing accounts, selling assets, paying debts, and distributing inheritances. If there’s no will, a close relative can apply for letters of administration. The process is similar but takes a little longer.

You can do this yourself online or get help from a solicitor. Farra’s guide shows you which forms to use and what to expect.

Apply for financial support if needed

Funerals can be expensive. If you’re struggling, you might qualify for help from the government:

• Bereavement Support Payment – for partners of the deceased
• Funeral Expenses Payment – for people on certain benefits
• Local authority support – in cases where no one can pay

Farra’s checklist helps you check eligibility and apply for support.

Look after yourself

The admin matters. But so do you. You’re allowed to pause, to grieve, to ask for help. Farra can keep track of tasks and send gentle reminders later. You can also share responsibilities with friends and family. Take time for yourself. Support groups, counselling, and simply resting all matter. You’re not alone.

For a full checklist, editable letter templates, and tailored guidance—create a free Farra account. Coming soon!