Mourning the loss of a loved one can make even the smallest tasks seem overwhelming.
From notifying us of a death, to making a claim, we can help you through this and point you in the best direction for more help when you need it
There are several ways you can let us know about the passing of a loved one.
Online
You can use our online bereavement notification form - it’s a simple and convenient way to let us know about a death, especially if speaking to someone feels too difficult right now. It usually takes around 10 minutes to complete.
By phone or mail
Bereavement support and guidance
- Telling people
- Emotional support
- Practical support
- Financial support
"Tell Us Once"
A Government service you can use to inform several government bodies of a death, in one go. This service will inform HMRC, the Department of Work and Pensions, the Passport Office, the DVLA, local councils and more.
Losing someone you love is painful and grief may feel overwhelming at times. Speaking to friends and family can often help but sometimes you may want support from a specialist organisation.
Cruse
A specialist bereavement charity. Their helpline, run by trained bereavement volunteers, can provide emotional support to anyone affected by grief. You can call them for free on 0808 808 1677. They also offer in-person support through their local branches in England, Wales and Northern Ireland.
Samaritans
Available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year to talk about anything that’s upsetting you; including grief. You can call 116 123 (free from any phone) or email jo@samaritans.org
Grief Encounter
Free bereavement support services to children and young people after the death of someone close. Working with individuals, families, schools and professionals, they help children and young people find a way through grief and its repercussions. For support, call 0808 802 0111 weekdays, 9:30am-3pm.
Unfortunately, there can be a lot to sort out when someone dies. Sometimes, it helps to have someone else identify the things you may need to consider.
National Bereavement Service (NBS)
A free helpline for families seeking assistance after losing a loved one. Offering practical guidance and emotional support, the NBS can help with topics such registering a death, probate, managing the estate and bereavement benefits (including help with funeral costs). You can call them on 0800 0246 121.
Citizens Advice
Free, practical advice about what to do after a death, dealing with the deceased’s finances, funeral arrangements, Wills, and what to do if someone dies abroad.
You can reach Citizens Advice online, in person and over the phone.
- England, call 0800 144 8848
- Wales, call 0800 702 2020
- For Scotland, call 0800 028 1456
Following a bereavement, you may find that your financial situation changes. Or, that you’re left to deal with the deceased’s finances, including their pension and any debts.
MoneyHelper
A government-backed service offering free, impartial money and pensions advice. Their website has a range of tools and calculators to help you budget, plan and tackle debt. They also offer dedicated bereavement support. They have a live chat service, or you can call them on 0800 138 7777.
Help with funeral costs
If you’re struggling with the costs of a funeral, you could get a Funeral Expenses Payment. In Scotland, this is called a Funeral Support Payment. Eligibility criteria apply. You can find out more here.
Contact us
Need more help?
If you can’t find what you’re looking for, or need more help, there are a number of ways you can get in touch.
