UK After-Death Checklist

A Complete, Step-by-Step Guide on What to Do and Who to Notify After a Death in the UK

Losing a loved one is overwhelming. Alongside grief, families are often faced with complex legal, financial and administrative tasks at a time when clarity and support are needed most.

The UK After-Death Checklist provides a clear, compassionate roadmap for what to do when someone dies in the UK. Written in plain English, this practical guide helps you understand each step, avoid costly mistakes and ensure nothing important is missed.

This comprehensive UK-specific guide walks you through the entire after-death process, from the first few days following a death through to final estate administration. It provides clear explanations of who to notify after a death, what forms may be required and which deadlines matter most.

Inside this guide, you will find:

• Immediate steps to take after a death, including registering the death and arranging the funeral

• How to use the Tell Us Once service and notify government departments

• Guidance on probate, inheritance tax and intestacy rules

• Financial matters, including pensions, bank accounts, insurance and unclaimed assets

• Bereavement benefits and time-critical claims many families miss

• Council Tax exemptions and discounts following a death

• How joint accounts and jointly owned property are treated

• Digital legacy planning and managing online accounts

• Protecting children, guardianship and inheritance considerations

• Common mistakes to avoid

• A clear timeline of important tasks and critical deadlines

Updated for 2026

This updated 2026 edition also includes vital but often overlooked information, including the ISA Additional Permitted Subscription (APS), guidance on finding lost pensions and dormant accounts, and practical wellbeing support for those navigating grief.

Who is this guide for?

The UK After-Death Checklist is designed for:

• Anyone dealing with the death of a family member or loved one

• Executors and administrators of estates

• Family members helping someone manage after-death administration

• People planning ahead to make things easier for their loved ones

• Professionals and organisations supporting bereaved families

Whether you are dealing with a bereavement right now or planning ahead, this checklist is designed to bring structure, reassurance and peace of mind during one of life's most difficult moments.

Paperback | 125 pages | UK Edition | Updated 2026

This guide is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional legal or financial advice.