The first weeks after a death are hard, and there is more paperwork than most people expect. Very little of it has to be done at once. This is the order we suggest to the families we help.
In the first 5 days
Register the death with the register office for the area where the person died. In England this should be done within 5 days. You'll need the medical certificate from the doctor. Ask for several certified copies of the death certificate, because banks and pension providers each want to see one.
Use the government's Tell Us Once service when you register. It lets you tell most government departments, including HMRC, the DWP and the DVLA, in one go.
In the first 2 weeks
Look for the will. It may be at home, with a solicitor or stored with a will storage company. The will names the executors, who have the job of dealing with the estate. Funeral wishes are often in it too.
If there is no will, the law decides who inherits and who can deal with the estate. Speak to a solicitor before you contact banks about moving money.
In the first month
- Make a list of bank accounts, pensions, investments, property and debts.
- Tell the home insurer, especially if the property will be empty.
- Keep copies of every letter and statement in one folder.
- Don't distribute any money or belongings until you know what the estate owes.
What can wait
Applying for probate, valuing the estate and paying inheritance tax all take place over the following months. Most estates take 9 to 12 months to finish. If you'd like help with any part of it, our fees are published on our fees page.
This guide is general information, not advice on your situation. Call 01632 960 418 to speak to Helen.