What happens after someone dies?
First, a doctor issues a medical certificate of cause of death; the death must then be registered within five days (in England & Wales), which produces the death certificate. The funeral is arranged, and the executor (or next of kin) begins administering the estate — valuing it, dealing with any inheritance tax, and applying for probate where needed.
Detailed explanation
The early steps are practical and time-sensitive; the estate admin follows.
- Obtain the medical certificate of cause of death.
- Register the death within five days; get certified copies of the certificate.
- Arrange the funeral (the will may state wishes).
- Locate the will and identify the executors.
- Value the estate, deal with inheritance tax, and apply for probate if required.
- Collect in assets, pay debts, and distribute to beneficiaries.
When his father dies at home, Sam gets the medical certificate, registers the death within five days and orders several certified copies, arranges the funeral, then begins valuing the estate as the named executor.
- Complete the questionnaireA few guided questions about you, your family and your wishes.
- Structured reviewYour answers are checked automatically for completeness and consistency before your will is produced.
- Receive your documentsYour will and supporting paperwork are produced, ready to print.
- Sign correctlyClear instructions on signing and witnessing so the will is legally valid.
- Protect your familyYour wishes are recorded and your loved ones are spared the intestacy default.
Sources
- GOV.UK — What to do when someone dies: step by step
- GOV.UK — Applying for probate
- Citizens Advice — Dealing with the estate of someone who has died
- Reviewed by
- ClearLegacy editorial team
- Last reviewed
- June 2026
- Next review
- December 2026
- Jurisdiction
- England & Wales
Frequently asked questions
What happens after someone dies in the UK?
A doctor issues a medical certificate, the death is registered within five days, and the funeral is arranged. The executor then values the estate, deals with inheritance tax, applies for probate if needed, pays debts and distributes to beneficiaries.
How long do you have to register a death?
In England and Wales a death must usually be registered within five days, unless it has been referred to a coroner. Registration produces the death certificate needed to deal with the estate.
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