Losing a loved one is painful. On top of grieving, there are legal and administrative tasks like registering the death. This process can feel daunting, but understanding what’s involved can make it more manageable. At Joseph A. Hey & Son funeral directors in Bradford, we provide compassionate guidance through every aspect.
Key Takeaways:
- Death registration is required within 5 days and is done at the local register office.
- Documents like a medical certificate of cause of death will be needed.
- The registrar will provide certified copies of the death certificate.
- Additional copies of the death certificate can be obtained for a fee.
- The certificate will be required to notify organisations and handle estate matters.
Why Register a Death?
Registering a death is a legal requirement under the Births and Deaths Registration Act 1953. It must be completed within 5 days of the death occurring.
Registration provides an official record of the death and enables the deceased’s estate and affairs to be handled. It also allows funeral arrangements to proceed. Without registration, the funeral cannot be held.
Choosing the Right Register Office
Deaths are registered in the district where they occurred. If the death took place at home, you would use the register office for that area. For a hospital death, you would use the register office corresponding to the hospital’s location.
To find your local register office, contact the local council offices. Alternatively, the hospital bereavement services can advise on the appropriate registry. Register offices are typically open Monday to Friday.
Documents Required for Death Registration
To register a death, the following documents must be presented:
- Medical certificate of cause of death – This is completed by the doctor who certified the death and states the medical cause and date of death. It also provides details about when and where the person died.
- ID for the person registering the death – Such as a driver’s licence, passport, utility bill, etc. Addresses must match.
- Details of the deceased – Including their full name, maiden name if applicable, home address, date and place of death, last occupation, and if relevant, the name and occupation of their spouse or civil partner.
- Marriage or civil partnership certificate – If applicable.
- Birth certificate – For deceased persons under the age of 18.
- Death abroad documentation – If the person died overseas.
The registrar may also request additional information like an NHS medical card, proof of address if IDs have different addresses, etc. Having these readily available can streamline the process.
Who Can Register a Death?
Typically, a close relative of the deceased serves as the “qualified informant” to register the death. This is commonly the spouse, parent, child, sibling, or civil partner of the deceased.
If a close relative is unable to register, another relative, relation, person present at the death, or the person making funeral arrangements can fill this role. The main requirement is that they have the required information about the deceased.
The Death Registration Appointment
The registration appointment is straightforward and takes around 30 minutes. You will meet with the registrar to verify the details to be registered. They will enter this into the official Register of Deaths.
The registrar will then issue the certified copies of the death certificate from the General Register Office. One copy is provided for free, additional copies cost around £11 each. The death certificate serves as formal confirmation of the death.
If desired, make an appointment ahead of time. Let the registrar know if you want someone there for emotional support. They will guide you through the process with sensitivity.
After Death Registration – Notifying Organisations
Once registered, certified copies of the death certificate will be needed to notify government agencies and financial institutions. This includes:
- Banks, insurance companies, mortgage lenders
- Utility providers, mobile phone companies
- Government offices like the DVLA, HMRC, Department for Work & Pensions
- The Passport Office to cancel passports
- Organisations paying pensions or benefits
The list can be extensive. Having multiple death certificate copies on-hand avoids delays. acting quickly can also minimise fraudulent activity.
For Respectful Funeral Services in Bradford, Choose Joseph A. Hey & Son
Registering a death is just one aspect we can assist with. At Joseph A. Hey & Son funeral directors, we provide compassionate guidance through the entire process, from registration to notifying organisations. Please get in touch if we can support you and your family in any way, from complete funeral services to simple cremations.