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How to register a death

A death must be registered within 5 days of its occurrence. This period may be extended under some circumstances and if the coroner is involved it will be postponed. The registration must take place in the district where the death happened.

A death can be registered by the following people:

  • A relative of the deceased 

  • Someone present at the death

  • The occupier of the premises where the death occurred.

  • A person who lived with the deceased.  

  • The person making the arrangements with the funeral director. 

Who can register a death?
 
How to register

You will need to visit the registrars in the district where the death occurred, before you visit it is important that you make an appointment prior to going otherwise you will not be able to register. 

 
What information will you need?

During your appointment at the registrars you will need to know the following. 

  • Date and place of death 

  • Name and surname of the deceased and any other names he/she have been known by 

  • Maiden surname (for a married woman)

  • Date and place of birth 

  • Last occupation 

  • Name and occupation of spouse of civil partner

  • Current address

  • Whether the deceased was in receipt of a pension or allowance from the government. 

  • If the deceased was married or in a civil partnership. 

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You will need to take with you the medical certificate from the doctor stating the cause of death 

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To ensure the information is accurate and to reduce the need for corrections of the paperwork issued later down the line it might be helpful to bring the following documents: 

  • Passport

  • Medical Card

  • Proof of Address

  • Marriage/ Civil Partnership certificates 

  • Birth Certificate

Your documents: 

  • Passport 

  • Driving licence if held

  • Proof of Address

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The absence of the supporting documents will not prevent registration just help with correct information. 

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The registrar will issue a certificate if not done by the coroners to proceed with the funeral arrangements, this will be transferred to the funeral director via the relative making the arrangements. 

 
Death Certificates 

After a death has been registered, one or more certificate may be brought at the time of registration at a cost of £4 each. more copies would be available at a later date should you need them. 

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You will need these copies for banks, insurance companies etc. to administer the estate of the deceased. 

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