Guide
Tell Us Once: how it works
Tell Us Once is a free government service that reports a death to most government departments in one go — so you don’t have to contact each one separately.
At a glance
- Available when the person who died was living in England, Scotland or Wales — not Northern Ireland.
- Use it within 28 days of receiving the reference number.
- It covers HMRC, DWP, passports, DVLA, councils and some public-sector pensions.
- You still contact banks, private pensions, insurers, employers and utilities yourself.
How to use it
The registrar can complete Tell Us Once with you or give you a unique reference number to use online or by phone. Use it within 28 days of receiving the number. You’ll need details about the person, their estate representative, and relevant passports, vehicles, benefits or pensions.
What it covers
- HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC)
- Department for Work and Pensions (DWP)
- Passport Office and DVLA
- The local council
- Public sector and Armed Forces pension schemes (in some cases)
Where to go
The official UK services and trusted support for this — so you can act, not just read.
General information to help you find your way — not legal or financial advice. Last reviewed June 2026.