Notify us of a death

When someone close to you passes away, knowing where to start can feel overwhelming. You do not need to deal with everything at once. Start by following the guidance from the professionals involved and arrange to register the death within the timeframe advised by the registrar. A funeral director can help with funeral arrangements.

Please let Honey Legal know, and keep the Will, certificates, and other important paperwork safe.

If Honey Legal prepared or holds their Will, Trust, or other estate planning documents, please let us know by scanning the QR code or using the link below to complete our short online form. Simply provide the details you have available –  you do not need the Will, death certificate, or other documents to hand.

Our Bereavement Team will review the information you provide and any records we hold for the person who has passed away.

A member of the team will then contact you within 24 office hours to discuss the circumstances, answer your questions, and explain the next steps. If we need any further information or documents, we will let you know.

If we prepared or hold the person’s Will, Trust or other estate planning documents, we can help explain what they mean and what may need to happen next. Depending on the circumstances, this may include:

• Helping to locate the Will and confirming who is named as executor.
• Explaining any Trust provisions and identifying the trustees.
• Outlining the practical steps involved in dealing with the estate.
• Discussing whether probate or further professional support may be needed.
• Assisting in the transfer or sale of an estate property

If additional services would be helpful, we will explain the options and any associated costs so you can make an informed decision.

Registering the death

In most cases, the death will need to be registered. The registrar will explain what information and documents are needed. If the passing away has been referred to a coroner, the process may be different.

You can find the latest guidance on registering a death on GOV.UK

Telling organisations

Once the death has been registered, you may be able to use the Tell Us Once service to notify certain government departments and local authority services.

You may also need to contact banks, pension providers, insurers, utility companies and other organisations in due course. This does not usually need to happen straight away.

Dealing with the estate

The estate is the money, property, possessions and debts left by the person who has passed away. The executor named in the Will, or another appropriate person if there is no Will, is usually responsible for dealing with it.

This can include contacting organisations, identifying debts, checking whether tax is due and applying for probate if necessary. You should not distribute money or possessions until you understand the estate’s position.

Support for you

Practical arrangements are only one part of what follows a loss. It is normal to need time and support. You may wish to speak with a trusted friend, family member, GP or bereavement support organisation. The NHS has information and advice about grief and bereavement.