Registering a death can be a distressing time. Our advice about how to register a death explains what is involved, the certain procedures that must be followed, how and when to do it.
When to register a death
UK law specifies that a death must be registered within 5 working days in Wales and England and within 8 days in Scotland. The place of registration is usually the district in which the death took place. It is possible to choose another register office (in certain circumstances only) but it may take longer to get the necessary documents and this could delay the funeral arrangements. To avoid delays, it is best to go to the register office in the area in which the person has died.
Death must be registered within 5 working days in Wales and England and within 8 days in Scotland
what do I need to take?
You will need to take the medical certificate that has been signed by a doctor, if the death is not subject to the involvement of the Coroner. The registrar will then issue the death certificate, for which they will charge a small fee.
certificate for burial or cremation
A certificate for burial or cremation (also known as the ‘green form’) will be issued by the registrar at the register office. This certificate is essential for us to progress with the funeral arrangements and so is important that you pass this certificate on to us as soon as possible. To save you the distress of notifying numerous government authorities of the death, the government has implemented a “tell us once service ” that lets you report a death to most government organisations in one go – the registrar will discuss this with you at the time of registration.
who can register a death?
Usually, a relative must register the death, but other people are permitted if a close relative is not available. The death can be registered by the following people:
- relative
- person who was present at the death
- co-occupant of the house
- hospital official
- person in charge of planning the funeral (except the funeral director)
register a death in Cwmbran
Pontypool Register Office
Civic Centre
Pontypool
NP4 6YB
01495 742 132
register a death in Newport
Newport Register Office
The Mansion House
Stow Park Circle
Newport
NP20 4HE
01633 414 770
we’re here for you…
We’re here to lend a helping hand if you would like to discuss anything with us. If you would like help understanding how to register a death, get in touch and we’ll be happy to talk you through it.