How to Register a Death in England and Wales
Registration Requirements
In England and Wales, you must register a death within 5 days (8 days in Scotland). This includes weekends and bank holidays.
⚠️ If the death has been referred to the coroner, you cannot register it until the coroner's investigation is complete.
Who Can Register a Death?
In priority order:
- A relative of the deceased
- Someone present at the death
- An administrator from the hospital
- The person making funeral arrangements
Documents You'll Need
- Medical certificate of cause of death (from the doctor)
- The deceased's birth certificate (if available)
- Marriage or civil partnership certificate (if applicable)
- NHS medical card (if available)
- Proof of address
- Your ID (passport or driving licence)
How to Book an Appointment
Online Booking
Many register offices now allow online booking. Search for your local register office on GOV.UK to book an appointment.
Phone Booking
Call your local register office. Have the medical certificate ready as they may ask for details.
At the Appointment
The registrar will ask for:
- The deceased's full name and any names previously used
- Date and place of birth
- Last address
- Occupation
- Whether they were receiving a pension or allowance
- If married, the full name and occupation of the surviving spouse
What You'll Receive
Death Certificate
The official death certificate. Order extra copies (£12.50 each) as you'll need them for banks, insurance, etc.
Certificate for Burial or Cremation
Also known as the "green form". Give this to the funeral director.
Tell Us Once Reference
A unique reference number to use the Tell Us Once service to notify government departments.
Registration Fees
- • Death registration: Free
- • First death certificate: £12.50
- • Additional copies at registration: £12.50 each
- • Copies ordered later: £12.50 plus admin fee
Related Guides
You might also find these guides helpful
How to Register a Death in the UK
Everything you need to know about registering a death, including documents, timelines, and local registrars.
Medical Certificate of Cause of Death
Understanding the MCCD, how to obtain it from doctors, and what to do if there are delays or complications.
How to Register a Death in Scotland
Complete guide to death registration in Scotland, including 8-day deadline, National Records procedures, and key differences from England/Wales.