Notifying Organisations After a Death in the UK
Dealing with admin after losing someone is one of the hardest aspects of bereavement. This guide explains what needs to be done, who to contact, and how to write the necessary letters.
What organisations need to be notified?
- —Banks, building societies, and credit card companies
- —Insurance providers — life, home, car, health
- —Pension providers and the DWP (state pension and benefits)
- —HMRC — income tax and outstanding tax affairs
- —Local council — council tax, housing benefit, electoral roll
- —Utility providers — gas, electricity, water, broadband
- —Subscriptions and direct debits
- —Employer (if still working)
Tell Us Once
When registering the death, ask the registrar to activate Tell Us Once — a government service that notifies HMRC, DWP, DVLA, the Passport Office, and local council services in one step. You will be given a reference number to complete the process online or by phone.
Documents you will need
- —Death certificate — order several certified copies when registering
- —Proof of your identity and relationship to the deceased
- —Grant of probate or letters of administration (for significant financial assets)
Small estates
For smaller estates (typically under £5,000–£50,000 depending on the institution), many banks and financial institutions will deal with the executor or next of kin without a full grant of probate. You will need a death certificate and may be asked to sign an indemnity form.
Joint accounts and jointly held assets
Assets held jointly usually pass automatically to the surviving owner under the right of survivorship. Notify the institution and they will transfer the account or update the title.
Dealing with creditors
Debts of the deceased become debts of the estate — settled from assets before distribution to beneficiaries. Creditors cannot pursue beneficiaries personally unless they were joint account holders or guarantors. Write formally to creditors notifying them of the death and that the estate is being administered.
Slow institutions
Bereavement administration can take months. If an institution is causing unnecessary delays, escalate to the Financial Ombudsman Service. Follow up in writing if no response is received within 28 days.