How to Register a Death in England and Wales: A Complete Guide

How to Register a Death in England and Wales: A Complete Guide

Registering a death is one of the very first administrative tasks you'll need to complete after someone dies. This guide explains exactly what you need to do, in plain language.

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Who needs to register the death?

In England and Wales, a death must be registered within five days of it occurring (unless a coroner is involved).

The following people are legally entitled to register the death:

• A relative of the deceased
• Someone who was present at the death
• Someone who is arranging the funeral
• The occupier of the premises where the death occurred
• An administrator from the hospital if the death took place there

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Before you can register: getting the Medical Certificate

Before you can register the death, a doctor must issue a Medical Certificate of Cause of Death (MCCD).

In some cases, the death must be referred to a coroner — for example, if the cause of death is unknown, or if the death was sudden or unexpected. If a coroner is involved, the five-day registration deadline does not apply until you have their certificate.

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Where to register the death

You must register the death at the Register Office in the district where the death occurred. Find your nearest office at gov.uk/register-offices. Most offices require an appointment.

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What documents do you need?

Essential:

• The Medical Certificate of Cause of Death

Helpful to bring:

• The deceased's NHS number or Medical Card
• Birth certificate
• Passport or driving licence
• National Insurance number
• Marriage or civil partnership certificate (if applicable)
• Details of any pension or benefits

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What happens at the Register Office?

The appointment takes around 30 minutes. The registrar will ask for:

• Full name and any previous names
• Date and place of birth
• Home address
• Occupation
• Marital status and spouse's details (if applicable)
• Details of any state pension or benefits

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Certificates and costs

The Certificate for Burial or Cremation (the "green form"): Free, given to the funeral director to allow the funeral to proceed.

Death Certificates: Certified copies of the death register entry.

• Each copy costs £11 in England and Wales
• Order at least 5 to 10 copies at registration
• Additional copies can be ordered later at gov.uk

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The Tell Us Once service

At the end of your registration appointment, ask about the Tell Us Once service — a free government service that notifies multiple departments simultaneously:

• HMRC
• Department for Work and Pensions (DWP)
• DVLA
• Passport Office
• Your local council

More information: gov.uk/tell-us-once

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Summary checklist

• Obtain the Medical Certificate of Cause of Death
• Find your nearest Register Office at gov.uk
• Book an appointment
• Gather helpful documents
• Attend within 5 days of the death
• Order 5–10 death certificates
• Use the Tell Us Once service

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