When someone dies, there are a few important things that need to happen, but you don't have to organise everything at once.
Knowing the main steps can make an overwhelming situation feel a little more manageable.
The exact process depends on where the person died and their circumstances. This is a general overview rather than a complete legal checklist.
Step 1. Get the death confirmed
If someone dies in hospital or a care home, staff will usually explain what happens next.
If someone appears to have died at home, contact an appropriate healthcare professional for guidance. If the death is sudden, unexpected or you're unsure whether the person needs emergency medical help, call 999.
The medical team will explain the process for confirming the death and establishing its cause. Sometimes further enquiries are needed before the death can be registered.
Step 2. Register the death
Once the necessary medical procedures have been completed, you'll be advised about registering the death.
Registration is usually arranged through a local register office, although the process and deadlines vary across the UK.
You can obtain official copies of the death certificate, which may be needed when dealing with banks, pension providers and other organisations.
Find out how to register a death — GOV.UK
Step 3. Arrange the funeral
Check whether the person left any wishes about their funeral or had a prepaid funeral plan.
You can ask a funeral director to help with the arrangements, although you don't have to use one.
The timing of a funeral may depend on the circumstances of the death, the necessary paperwork and any religious or cultural requirements.
Step 4. Tell the relevant organisations
Government departments, banks, insurers, pension providers and utility companies may need to be informed.
If the person who died was living in England, Scotland or Wales, the government's free Tell Us Once service can help notify many government organisations.
It does not notify every organisation, so some will need to be contacted separately. Different arrangements apply in Northern Ireland.
Find out about Tell Us Once — GOV.UK
Step 5. Deal with the person's money and belongings
Someone will need to establish whether there is a will and who has legal responsibility for dealing with the person's estate.
This may involve identifying assets and debts, dealing with tax, applying for probate or another form of legal authority where required, and eventually distributing the estate.
The process depends on the person's circumstances and the law that applies. You may want professional advice, particularly if the finances or family arrangements are complicated.
Step 6. Check whether financial support is available
A death can affect household income, benefits, pensions and other financial arrangements.
Depending on your circumstances, you may be eligible for financial support or help with funeral costs.
The government provides information about the different types of assistance available and how to check eligibility.
Step 7. Look after yourself and ask for support
Losing someone can be emotionally and physically exhausting, particularly when there are practical responsibilities to manage.
Ask family or friends for help if you need it, take breaks where possible and avoid rushing decisions that don't require immediate attention.
If you're finding it difficult to cope, consider speaking to your GP.
Where can I find more detailed guidance?
The government provides a step-by-step guide covering the practical and legal responsibilities following a death.
What to do when someone dies — GOV.UK
This guide explains the different steps and directs you towards further information relevant to your circumstances.
Remember, you don't have to do everything yourself, and not everything needs to happen immediately.