What to do when someone has died

In the first few days

Practical things only - no rush on legal steps yet.

• Register the death within 5 days (8 in Scotland) at any register office
• Order extra copies of the death certificate - banks and DVLA usually want one each
• Tell the GP, employer (if applicable), and any care providers
• Use the Tell Us Once service to inform HMRC, DWP, DVLA and the local council in one go
• Secure any property - check insurance is still valid for an empty home

Find the will and key documents

• Look for the original will - usually with a solicitor, in a safe, or filed with the Probate Service
• Find the death certificate (or interim certificate)
• Find any pre-paid funeral plan or will-writing instructions
• Locate the National Insurance number and recent tax records
• Make a list of named executors (or, if there is no will, the closest next of kin)

Build a picture of the estate

You do not need to be exact - estimates are fine for the first call with a solicitor.

• List bank and building society accounts (with rough balances)
• List any property, with rough market values
• List investments, ISAs, premium bonds and shares
• List pensions and life insurance policies
• List any debts - mortgage, credit cards, loans, utility arrears
• List any gifts of more than £325 made in the last 7 years (relevant for IHT)

Things to ask the solicitor on the first call

• What does your fixed fee cover, and what is excluded?
• Can the fee be paid from the estate rather than my own pocket?
• How long do you expect this to take from start to grant?
• Will I have one named contact, or will I be handed around?
• Is Inheritance Tax likely to apply, and what are the next steps if so?

Look after yourself

• It is normal to feel overwhelmed - you do not need to do everything this week
• Free bereavement support: Cruse Bereavement Support 0808 808 1677
• GOV.UK has a free "What to do after someone dies" tool