After a death — what to do

There's no need to do this all at once.

Whenever you're ready — today, or in a few weeks — here's what actually needs doing, in order, without the parts that can wait.

Where did this happen?

The registration process differs slightly by nation.

England, Wales, and Northern Ireland each set their own registration deadline and rules separately from Scotland, since registering a death is handled under different legislation in each part of the UK. Northern Ireland also doesn't have access to the Tell Us Once service that England, Wales, and Scotland share — so each department there needs contacting individually. Picking the right one below just makes sure you see the correct deadline and steps for where you are.

Take whatever time this needs.

The caring doesn't just stop and leave nothing behind — most people find the adjustment takes real time, and that's expected, not a sign anything's wrong.

If you'd like to talk it through, Cruse Bereavement Support and Carers UK both offer free, confidential help for people who've been caring for someone who's died.

There's also a private, day-by-day companion for the months that follow — Still Hurting, Seven Years On.