Who can register a death?

Anyone can register a death, but it is usually the closest relative

What information is required?

The Registrar will need the following information from you about the person who has died:

• Full name and any previous names used

• Date and place of birth

• Date and place of death

• Occupation

• Last full postal address

• If married, full name, date of birth and occupation of the surviving spouse

• If they were in receipt of any state pension or benefits

• Their NI number and that of any surviving husband, wife or civil partner

They may also need the following documents:

• The NHS medical card of the person who has died (if available)

• The Birth certificate of the person who has died

• The Marriage or civil partnership certificate of the person who has died (if applicable)

Certification

Once the Registrar has the required information and documents, they will issue the Certification for Burial or Cremation, also known as the ‘green form’ to your appointed Funeral Director and the relevant authorities. At this stage, you can start arranging the funeral.

The Certificate for burial or cremation is free of charge and needs to be given to us, as your appointed funeral director, as soon as possible as it gives permission for the person who has died to be buried or cremated. This can be sent directly to us by the Registrar if you advise them. If the coroner is involved, this certificate may not be issued but instead a separate certificate sent directly to us.

Once the registration has taken place, the Registrar will issue a Death Certificate, by post, to you. It may be a good idea to order multiple copies (usually £11 each for additional ones) so you can send to banks, building societies and life insurance companies etc., as they usually require originals.