Dealing with the affairs of a loved one in a time of grief is not easy. There are so many matters needing your attention and decisions to be made, it may feel difficult to even know where to start - which is why we've written this guide. It contains practical information on some of the things you'll need to do next, how you can contact our Bereavement Support Team and who you can turn to for more support. Plus, we've also included a glossary to help explain any legal terms you may not be familiar with already.
What to do first
There are a few steps that need to be taken shortly after the death. Although in many cases the hospital or GP involved may give you advice on what to do first, we've also provided some information for you below. Please click on the relevant sections to find out more.
Register the death
When someone dies in England and Wales, you need to register the death at the registry office within five days (within eight days in Scotland).
It's preferable to go to the register office in the area where the person died, as otherwise it may take longer to get the documents you need and this could delay the funeral. Here you'll be given the following three documents:
- A certificate for burial or cremation
- A certificate of registration of death
- The Death Certificate, which will be a copy of the entry in the register. Some organisations will ask to see the original Death Certificate, so it's a good idea to get several copies
Arrange the funeral
Funerals can be expensive, so unless a prepaid funeral plan exists, it's advisable to check there will be enough money to pay for it before you make any arrangements.
If the person has accounts with HSBC, we will usually be able to release money to pay the funeral bill (provided enough money is available in the accounts). To find out more, please see 'Ways we can help'. If they have accounts with other banks or financial institutions, you can approach them to help with the funeral costs.
If you're claiming benefits you may be able to get help with the funeral payment. Check with your Jobcentre Plus office as soon as possible as this will make it easier to plan the funeral.
If the person was employed a 'death in service' payment may be available from the employer and payments may also be available from a benevolent fund or pension scheme. The employer's HR department should be able to advise the next of kin or executor(s) if this is the case.
If no one is able to pay your local authority will arrange a simple, dignified funeral.
Find out if there is a will
- A will is important as it contains the last wishes of the person who died. The executor or personal representative named on the will holds the legal responsibility of dealing with the deceased person's affairs. If you are unable to find a will at their home, it's a good idea to ask their solicitor, bank, or financial advisor if they are holding it for safekeeping. If so, you will need to establish whether the will they hold is the last known version.
- If someone dies without making a will, it is the responsibility of the next of kin to administer their estate. Please see the 'Dealing with the estate' section on the 'Ways we can help' page to find out more. The Probate Services website can also help you with information on this aspect.
- If HSBC are appointed as executors of the will contact the Bereavement Support Team (see 'Notifying us') who will advise of the next steps.
