What to do when someone dies

If a death occurs at home, it will usually be confirmed by a qualified professional such as a GP, oncall doctor, paramedic, or registered nurse. Once this has been confirmed, the family may contact us to arrange for their loved one to be brought into our care.

Changes to the registration of deaths

From 9 September 2024, the process for registering a death has changed. All deaths must now undergo an independent review by a medical examiner or, in some cases, a coroner.

• A medical practitioner (usually a GP) will issue a Medical Certificate of Cause of Death (MCCD), setting out the proposed cause of death.
• The MCCD is then referred to a medical examiner, who will carefully review the certificate before it is submitted to the registrar.
• As part of this process, the medical examiner will contact the bereaved family to discuss the death and address any concerns.

This replaces the previous system where the attending practitioner sent the MCCD directly to the registrar. While the new process is designed to improve accuracy and consistency, it may result in longer waiting times for death certificates, which can affect funeral arrangements and estate administration.

When the coroner is involved

Most deaths reported to the coroner are natural, but the exact cause may be uncertain. A death will be referred to the coroner if:

• The cause of death is unknown or unexpected
• The death may be unnatural or suspicious
• The death occurred during surgery
• The death was linked to an industrial disease
• The death was the result of an accident

A representative from the coroner’s office will usually speak with a close relative and the doctors involved in care before deciding whether a postmortem examination is necessary. This examination is carried out solely to establish the cause of death.

• If the cause is found to be natural and no inquest is required, the coroner will issue a document allowing the death to be registered.
• If further investigation is needed, the coroner will open an inquest. In most cases, the deceased will be released at this stage so that funeral arrangements can proceed.

Who can register a death

A death may be registered by:

• A relative of the deceased
• Someone present at the death
• The occupier of the premises where the death occurred
• Another person living at the house who was aware of the death
• The person arranging the funeral

Information required

When registering a death, you will be asked to provide:

• Date and place of death
• Full name of the deceased (including any previous names)
• Date and place of birth
• Last occupation
• Name and occupation of spouse or civil partner
• Usual address
• Details of any pension or allowance from public funds
• Date of birth of the surviving spouse or civil partner (if applicable)

Supporting documents such as passports, birth or marriage certificates, and proof of address may be requested, but their absence will not prevent registration.

Certificates issued

The registrar will issue:

• A certificate for burial or cremation (or, in some cases, a document from the coroner)
• A certificate for the Department of Social Security, which can be used for relevant claims

Copies of the death certificate can be purchased at the time of registration for £12.50 each. Additional copies can be obtained later if required, for example by banks, insurance companies, or for estate administration.

‘Tell Us Once’ service

The Tell Us Once service helps families notify government departments and local council services following a death. Information about this service will be provided when you make an appointment to register the death, and it is usually offered at the same time as registration.

In the event of a death in hospital, the bereavement team will reach out to the family to offer guidance and support through the next steps.

In most cases, we are unable to take the deceased from hospital, into our care until the family has completed the death registration process.

Changes to the registration of deaths

From 9 September 2024, the process for registering a death has changed. All deaths must now undergo an independent review by a medical examiner or, in some cases, a coroner.

• A medical practitioner (usually a GP) will issue a Medical Certificate of Cause of Death (MCCD), setting out the proposed cause of death.
• The MCCD is then referred to a medical examiner, who will carefully review the certificate before it is submitted to the registrar.
• As part of this process, the medical examiner will contact the bereaved family to discuss the death and address any concerns.

This replaces the previous system where the attending practitioner sent the MCCD directly to the registrar. While the new process is designed to improve accuracy and consistency, it may result in longer waiting times for death certificates, which can affect funeral arrangements and estate administration.

When the coroner is involved

Most deaths reported to the coroner are natural, but the exact cause may be uncertain. A death will be referred to the coroner if:

• The cause of death is unknown or unexpected
• The death may be unnatural or suspicious
• The death occurred during surgery
• The death was linked to an industrial disease
• The death was the result of an accident

A representative from the coroner’s office will usually speak with a close relative and the doctors involved in care before deciding whether a postmortem examination is necessary. This examination is carried out solely to establish the cause of death.

• If the cause is found to be natural and no inquest is required, the coroner will issue a document allowing the death to be registered.
• If further investigation is needed, the coroner will open an inquest. In most cases, the deceased will be released at this stage so that funeral arrangements can proceed.

Who can register a death

A death may be registered by:

• A relative of the deceased
• Someone present at the death
• The occupier of the premises where the death occurred
• Another person living at the house who was aware of the death
• The person arranging the funeral

Information required

When registering a death, you will be asked to provide:

• Date and place of death
• Full name of the deceased (including any previous names)
• Date and place of birth
• Last occupation
• Name and occupation of spouse or civil partner
• Usual address
• Details of any pension or allowance from public funds
• Date of birth of the surviving spouse or civil partner (if applicable)

Supporting documents such as passports, birth or marriage certificates, and proof of address may be requested, but their absence will not prevent registration.

Certificates issued

The registrar will issue:

• A certificate for burial or cremation (or, in some cases, a document from the coroner)
• A certificate for the Department of Social Security, which can be used for relevant claims

Copies of the death certificate can be purchased at the time of registration for £12.50 each. Additional copies can be obtained later if required, for example by banks, insurance companies, or for estate administration.

‘Tell Us Once’ service

The Tell Us Once service helps families notify government departments and local council services following a death. Information about this service will be provided when you make an appointment to register the death, and it is usually offered at the same time as registration.

 

Here you can find details of Derbyshire Registration Offices (also known as Register or Registry Offices).

Opening hours for registrations of death are correct to the best of our knowledge. It is essential that you make an appointment before visiting any of the following registration offices.

If you are uncertain about anything, please don’t hesitate to contact us.

 

Ashbourne	Bakewell	Buxton
Ashbourne Library 2 Compton Ashbourne DE6 1DA	Town Hall Bakewell DE45 1BW	Town Hall Market Place Buxton SK17 6EL
T: 01629 533968	T: 01629 535261	T: 01629 535075
Opening Times	Opening Times	Opening Times
Monday and Wednesday 10:00am – 12:30pm Friday 1:30pm – 4:00pm	Monday – Friday 9:00am – 12:30pm and 1:00pm – 4:30pm	Monday – Wednesday 9:30am – 12:30pm and 1:00pm – 4:30pm Thursday and Friday 9:30am – 12:30pm and 1:00pm – 5:00pm

 

Chesterfield	Derby	Glossop
Chesterfield Town Hall Chesterfield S40 1LP	Customer Service Centre The Council House Corporation Street Derby DE1 2FS	Municipal Buildings Glossop Derbyshire SK13 8AF
T: 01629 533110 / 01629 533111 / 533112	T: 01332 641680	T: 01629 531503 / 01629 535261 / 535075
Opening Times	Opening Times	Opening Times
Monday – Friday 9:00am – 4:30pm	Monday – Friday 9:00am – 5:00pm	Wednesday only 9:30am – 1:00pm and 1:30pm – 4:00pm

 

Macclesfield	New Mills	Ripley
Town Hall Extension Market Place Macclesfield SK10 1EA	Town Hall New Mills High Peak SK22 4AT	Town Hall Market Place Ripley DE5 3BT
T: 0300 1235019	T: 01629 533686 / 01629 535261 / 535075	T: 01629 532609
Opening Times	Opening Times	Opening Times
Monday – Friday 9:00am – 4:30pm	Tuesday only 10:00am – 12:30pm and 1:00pm – 4:00pm	Monday – Friday 9:00am – 1:00pm and 1:30pm – 4:00pm

 

Royal Derby Hospital	Sheffield	Stockport
Uttoxeter New Road Derby DE22 3NE	Town Hall Pinstone Street S1 2HH	Town Hall John Street Stockport SK1 3XE
T: 01332 785557	T: 0144 2039427	T: 0161 2176007
Opening Times	Opening Times	Opening Times
Monday – Friday 9:45am – 3:45pm	Monday – Thursday 8:45am – 4:45pm Friday 8:45am – 4:45pm	Monday – Friday 8:30am – 4:30pm

 

Understanding Probate

Probate is the legal process that gives someone the authority to manage a person’s estate after they have died. This includes dealing with their money, property and personal possessions.

Funeral Costs Before Probate

Most banks allow funeral expenses to be paid directly from the deceased’s account before probate is granted. This is one of the few exceptions where funds can be released early.

How it works:
The bank will pay us directly once you provide:

• The funeral invoice (not a quote)
• A death certificate or interim certificate
• Your ID and any bank-specific forms

The bank then transfers the payment straight to us.

1. Check whether you actually need probate

You usually do need probate if the person had:

• A property in their sole name
• Bank accounts with balances typically between £5,000–£50,000 (varies by bank)
• Investments held in their own name
• Life insurance policies not held in trust

You may not need probate if:

• All assets were jointly owned (they normally pass automatically to the survivor)
• Bank balances were low and the bank agrees to release funds without probate
• Major assets were held in a trust

If you’re unsure, contact each bank or asset provider to check their requirements.

1. Find the Will

If there is a will:

• Locate the original document
• Identify who is named as executor (only executors can administer the estate)

If there is no will:
The closest next-of-kin—usually a spouse or children—applies for Letters of Administration.

1. Value the Estate

You’ll need a complete valuation of:

Assets

• Bank accounts
• Property (use a valuation or online estimate)
• Investments, shares, pensions
• Vehicles
• Personal belongings

Liabilities

• Mortgages and loans
• Credit cards
• Utility bills or care-home fees
• Funeral costs

This valuation determines whether Inheritance Tax (IHT) is owed.

1. Check for Inheritance Tax

The inheritance tax threshold is generally:

• £325,000 Nil-Rate Band
• Up to £500,000 if a home is left to children or grandchildren

Rates and rules vary depending on circumstances such as gifts made before death.

If no tax is due, you usually complete form IHT205.
If tax is due or the estate is complex, you must complete IHT400 and additional forms.
Some tax may need to be paid before probate is granted, often using funds from the deceased’s bank account.

1. Apply for Probate

Apply Online

Through the official GOV.UK service. You’ll need:

• Death certificate
• Original will (posted after the online application)
• Completed IHT forms or HMRC reference
• Full estate valuation
• The probate fee (around £273)

Apply by Post

Use forms:

• PA1P – if there is a will
• PA1A – if there is no will

Send these with the original will (if applicable) and death certificate.

1. Processing Time

Most applications take 4–16 weeks, depending on complexity and processing times.
The Probate Registry may contact you for more information if needed.

1. Administer the Estate

Once you receive the Grant of Probate or Letters of Administration, you can:

1. Collect all assets
2. Pay any debts and taxes
3. Prepare final estate accounts
4. Distribute remaining funds to beneficiaries

Keep clear records—beneficiaries have the right to request them.

Helpful Tips

• Contact banks early to confirm their probate thresholds
• Order several death certificates (5–10 is recommended)
• Keep a spreadsheet of all assets, liabilities and correspondence
• Notify all relevant organisations promptly
• Avoid distributing any funds until all debts and taxes are settled

When to Consider a Solicitor

Professional support is recommended if:

• The estate is large or complex
• Inheritance Tax is payable
• There are disputes among family members
• The will is unclear or missing
• There are foreign assets or business interests

If a death occurs at home, it will usually be confirmed by a qualified professional such as a GP, oncall doctor, paramedic, or registered nurse. Once this has been confirmed, the family may contact us to arrange for their loved one to be brought into our care.

Changes to the registration of deaths

From 9 September 2024, the process for registering a death has changed. All deaths must now undergo an independent review by a medical examiner or, in some cases, a coroner.

• A medical practitioner (usually a GP) will issue a Medical Certificate of Cause of Death (MCCD), setting out the proposed cause of death.
• The MCCD is then referred to a medical examiner, who will carefully review the certificate before it is submitted to the registrar.
• As part of this process, the medical examiner will contact the bereaved family to discuss the death and address any concerns.

This replaces the previous system where the attending practitioner sent the MCCD directly to the registrar. While the new process is designed to improve accuracy and consistency, it may result in longer waiting times for death certificates, which can affect funeral arrangements and estate administration.

When the coroner is involved

Most deaths reported to the coroner are natural, but the exact cause may be uncertain. A death will be referred to the coroner if:

• The cause of death is unknown or unexpected
• The death may be unnatural or suspicious
• The death occurred during surgery
• The death was linked to an industrial disease
• The death was the result of an accident

A representative from the coroner’s office will usually speak with a close relative and the doctors involved in care before deciding whether a postmortem examination is necessary. This examination is carried out solely to establish the cause of death.

• If the cause is found to be natural and no inquest is required, the coroner will issue a document allowing the death to be registered.
• If further investigation is needed, the coroner will open an inquest. In most cases, the deceased will be released at this stage so that funeral arrangements can proceed.

Who can register a death

A death may be registered by:

• A relative of the deceased
• Someone present at the death
• The occupier of the premises where the death occurred
• Another person living at the house who was aware of the death
• The person arranging the funeral

Information required

When registering a death, you will be asked to provide:

• Date and place of death
• Full name of the deceased (including any previous names)
• Date and place of birth
• Last occupation
• Name and occupation of spouse or civil partner
• Usual address
• Details of any pension or allowance from public funds
• Date of birth of the surviving spouse or civil partner (if applicable)

Supporting documents such as passports, birth or marriage certificates, and proof of address may be requested, but their absence will not prevent registration.

Certificates issued

The registrar will issue:

• A certificate for burial or cremation (or, in some cases, a document from the coroner)
• A certificate for the Department of Social Security, which can be used for relevant claims

Copies of the death certificate can be purchased at the time of registration for £12.50 each. Additional copies can be obtained later if required, for example by banks, insurance companies, or for estate administration.

‘Tell Us Once’ service

The Tell Us Once service helps families notify government departments and local council services following a death. Information about this service will be provided when you make an appointment to register the death, and it is usually offered at the same time as registration.

In the event of a death in hospital, the bereavement team will reach out to the family to offer guidance and support through the next steps.

In most cases, we are unable to take the deceased from hospital, into our care until the family has completed the death registration process.

Changes to the registration of deaths

From 9 September 2024, the process for registering a death has changed. All deaths must now undergo an independent review by a medical examiner or, in some cases, a coroner.

• A medical practitioner (usually a GP) will issue a Medical Certificate of Cause of Death (MCCD), setting out the proposed cause of death.
• The MCCD is then referred to a medical examiner, who will carefully review the certificate before it is submitted to the registrar.
• As part of this process, the medical examiner will contact the bereaved family to discuss the death and address any concerns.

This replaces the previous system where the attending practitioner sent the MCCD directly to the registrar. While the new process is designed to improve accuracy and consistency, it may result in longer waiting times for death certificates, which can affect funeral arrangements and estate administration.

When the coroner is involved

Most deaths reported to the coroner are natural, but the exact cause may be uncertain. A death will be referred to the coroner if:

• The cause of death is unknown or unexpected
• The death may be unnatural or suspicious
• The death occurred during surgery
• The death was linked to an industrial disease
• The death was the result of an accident

A representative from the coroner’s office will usually speak with a close relative and the doctors involved in care before deciding whether a postmortem examination is necessary. This examination is carried out solely to establish the cause of death.

• If the cause is found to be natural and no inquest is required, the coroner will issue a document allowing the death to be registered.
• If further investigation is needed, the coroner will open an inquest. In most cases, the deceased will be released at this stage so that funeral arrangements can proceed.

Who can register a death

A death may be registered by:

• A relative of the deceased
• Someone present at the death
• The occupier of the premises where the death occurred
• Another person living at the house who was aware of the death
• The person arranging the funeral

Information required

When registering a death, you will be asked to provide:

• Date and place of death
• Full name of the deceased (including any previous names)
• Date and place of birth
• Last occupation
• Name and occupation of spouse or civil partner
• Usual address
• Details of any pension or allowance from public funds
• Date of birth of the surviving spouse or civil partner (if applicable)

Supporting documents such as passports, birth or marriage certificates, and proof of address may be requested, but their absence will not prevent registration.

Certificates issued

The registrar will issue:

• A certificate for burial or cremation (or, in some cases, a document from the coroner)
• A certificate for the Department of Social Security, which can be used for relevant claims

Copies of the death certificate can be purchased at the time of registration for £12.50 each. Additional copies can be obtained later if required, for example by banks, insurance companies, or for estate administration.

‘Tell Us Once’ service

The Tell Us Once service helps families notify government departments and local council services following a death. Information about this service will be provided when you make an appointment to register the death, and it is usually offered at the same time as registration.

 

Here you can find details of Derbyshire Registration Offices (also known as Register or Registry Offices).

Opening hours for registrations of death are correct to the best of our knowledge. It is essential that you make an appointment before visiting any of the following registration offices.

If you are uncertain about anything, please don’t hesitate to contact us.

 

Ashbourne	Bakewell	Buxton
Ashbourne Library 2 Compton Ashbourne DE6 1DA	Town Hall Bakewell DE45 1BW	Town Hall Market Place Buxton SK17 6EL
T: 01629 533968	T: 01629 535261	T: 01629 535075
Opening Times	Opening Times	Opening Times
Monday and Wednesday 10:00am – 12:30pm Friday 1:30pm – 4:00pm	Monday – Friday 9:00am – 12:30pm and 1:00pm – 4:30pm	Monday – Wednesday 9:30am – 12:30pm and 1:00pm – 4:30pm Thursday and Friday 9:30am – 12:30pm and 1:00pm – 5:00pm

 

Chesterfield	Derby	Glossop
Chesterfield Town Hall Chesterfield S40 1LP	Customer Service Centre The Council House Corporation Street Derby DE1 2FS	Municipal Buildings Glossop Derbyshire SK13 8AF
T: 01629 533110 / 01629 533111 / 533112	T: 01332 641680	T: 01629 531503 / 01629 535261 / 535075
Opening Times	Opening Times	Opening Times
Monday – Friday 9:00am – 4:30pm	Monday – Friday 9:00am – 5:00pm	Wednesday only 9:30am – 1:00pm and 1:30pm – 4:00pm

 

Macclesfield	New Mills	Ripley
Town Hall Extension Market Place Macclesfield SK10 1EA	Town Hall New Mills High Peak SK22 4AT	Town Hall Market Place Ripley DE5 3BT
T: 0300 1235019	T: 01629 533686 / 01629 535261 / 535075	T: 01629 532609
Opening Times	Opening Times	Opening Times
Monday – Friday 9:00am – 4:30pm	Tuesday only 10:00am – 12:30pm and 1:00pm – 4:00pm	Monday – Friday 9:00am – 1:00pm and 1:30pm – 4:00pm

 

Royal Derby Hospital	Sheffield	Stockport
Uttoxeter New Road Derby DE22 3NE	Town Hall Pinstone Street S1 2HH	Town Hall John Street Stockport SK1 3XE
T: 01332 785557	T: 0144 2039427	T: 0161 2176007
Opening Times	Opening Times	Opening Times
Monday – Friday 9:45am – 3:45pm	Monday – Thursday 8:45am – 4:45pm Friday 8:45am – 4:45pm	Monday – Friday 8:30am – 4:30pm

 

Understanding Probate

Probate is the legal process that gives someone the authority to manage a person’s estate after they have died. This includes dealing with their money, property and personal possessions.

Funeral Costs Before Probate

Most banks allow funeral expenses to be paid directly from the deceased’s account before probate is granted. This is one of the few exceptions where funds can be released early.

How it works:
The bank will pay us directly once you provide:

• The funeral invoice (not a quote)
• A death certificate or interim certificate
• Your ID and any bank-specific forms

The bank then transfers the payment straight to us.

1. Check whether you actually need probate

You usually do need probate if the person had:

• A property in their sole name
• Bank accounts with balances typically between £5,000–£50,000 (varies by bank)
• Investments held in their own name
• Life insurance policies not held in trust

You may not need probate if:

• All assets were jointly owned (they normally pass automatically to the survivor)
• Bank balances were low and the bank agrees to release funds without probate
• Major assets were held in a trust

If you’re unsure, contact each bank or asset provider to check their requirements.

1. Find the Will

If there is a will:

• Locate the original document
• Identify who is named as executor (only executors can administer the estate)

If there is no will:
The closest next-of-kin—usually a spouse or children—applies for Letters of Administration.

1. Value the Estate

You’ll need a complete valuation of:

Assets

• Bank accounts
• Property (use a valuation or online estimate)
• Investments, shares, pensions
• Vehicles
• Personal belongings

Liabilities

• Mortgages and loans
• Credit cards
• Utility bills or care-home fees
• Funeral costs

This valuation determines whether Inheritance Tax (IHT) is owed.

1. Check for Inheritance Tax

The inheritance tax threshold is generally:

• £325,000 Nil-Rate Band
• Up to £500,000 if a home is left to children or grandchildren

Rates and rules vary depending on circumstances such as gifts made before death.

If no tax is due, you usually complete form IHT205.
If tax is due or the estate is complex, you must complete IHT400 and additional forms.
Some tax may need to be paid before probate is granted, often using funds from the deceased’s bank account.

1. Apply for Probate

Apply Online

Through the official GOV.UK service. You’ll need:

• Death certificate
• Original will (posted after the online application)
• Completed IHT forms or HMRC reference
• Full estate valuation
• The probate fee (around £273)

Apply by Post

Use forms:

• PA1P – if there is a will
• PA1A – if there is no will

Send these with the original will (if applicable) and death certificate.

1. Processing Time

Most applications take 4–16 weeks, depending on complexity and processing times.
The Probate Registry may contact you for more information if needed.

1. Administer the Estate

Once you receive the Grant of Probate or Letters of Administration, you can:

1. Collect all assets
2. Pay any debts and taxes
3. Prepare final estate accounts
4. Distribute remaining funds to beneficiaries

Keep clear records—beneficiaries have the right to request them.

Helpful Tips

• Contact banks early to confirm their probate thresholds
• Order several death certificates (5–10 is recommended)
• Keep a spreadsheet of all assets, liabilities and correspondence
• Notify all relevant organisations promptly
• Avoid distributing any funds until all debts and taxes are settled

When to Consider a Solicitor

Professional support is recommended if:

• The estate is large or complex
• Inheritance Tax is payable
• There are disputes among family members
• The will is unclear or missing
• There are foreign assets or business interests