Registering the Death

Losing someone is hard enough—let’s make this part as straightforward as possible. Registering the death is the first step in sorting probate, and it needs to be done within 5 days. You’re not alone in this—we’ll walk you through it, step by step.

Step 1: Arrange the Appointment

Contact the local register office in the district where your father passed. You can find the right one on GOV.UK. Some offices require you to book in advance, so check ahead and secure your slot. It’s the first move to getting things organised.

Step 2: Gather the Essentials

You’ll need the medical certificate of cause of death, signed by a doctor, to proceed. It’s the key document they’ll ask for. If you have his birth certificate, marriage certificate, or NHS card, bring those too—they can help with the details, though they’re not essential.

• Required: Medical certificate
• Optional: Birth certificate, marriage certificate, NHS card

Step 3: Provide the Details

They’ll need his full name, date of birth, address, and occupation. It’s straightforward, but if it feels overwhelming, take it steady—we’ve got your back. Just the basics will do to get this sorted.

Step 4: Secure the Death Certificates

Once registered, order several copies of the death certificate—5 to 10 is a good number. They cost around £11-12 each in England and Wales, and you’ll need them for banks, insurers, and other places. It’s a small step that makes the next ones easier.

Tip: Get enough copies now—ordering more later can slow you down.

Step 5: Plan the Next Steps

With the certificates in hand, you’re ready to notify banks, pensions, and deal with the will. It’s a lot to take on, but this is where it starts. We’ll guide you through what’s ahead, one step at a time.

Extra Support

For more details, the GOV.UK Register a Death guide is a solid resource. If it’s all feeling a bit much, reach out—we’ll help you through it like pros.

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You’re doing brilliantly—on to the next bit with us by your side.