Register a death

Registering a Death (Updated for the Medical Examiner System)

What is a Medical Examiner?

A Medical Examiner is an independent doctor who reviews deaths that are not referred to the coroner. Their role is to:

• Confirm the cause of death is accurate

• Speak with a relative, giving you the chance to ask questions or raise any concerns

• Ensure the case does not require referral to the coroner

Once the Medical Examiner has completed their review, the MCCD is sent electronically to the local Register Office.

How to register the death

Once the Medical Certificate has been sent to the registrar, you will need to make an appointment to register the death. This must usually be done within five days, and in the same district where the person died.

At your appointment, you may be asked to provide the following:

• Proof of identity for the person who has died (this can be a utility bill)

• Any formal documents you have for them, such as a birth certificate or marriage certificate

• Their full name, date and place of birth, last address and occupation

• Details of their spouse or civil partner, if applicable

The registrar will issue several documents:

1.Death Certificate

This is the official record of death. You will need it for the funeral and to manage legal and financial matters. You can request additional copies for a small fee.

2.The Green Form (Certificate for Burial or Cremation)

This is given to the funeral director so that the funeral can take place.

3.Tell Us Once reference number

This is part of a government service that allows you to notify most official departments in one go, such as HMRC, DWP and the Passport Office.

If you are unsure about anything or do not have all the documents, we can advise you before your appointment.

When a coroner is involved

Some deaths must be referred to the coroner, for example if:

• The cause of death is unclear or unknown

• The death was sudden, accidental or unnatural

• The person died in custody or state detention

In these cases, the coroner will take over the process of issuing the certificate.

If no post-mortem is required, the paperwork is sent directly to the registrar. If further investigation is needed, a post-mortem or inquest may delay registration.

We can speak to the coroner’s office on your behalf and keep you informed throughout.