Guide
What to do when your husband dies
Losing your husband is one of the hardest things you will ever face. There is no need to do everything at once — here is what genuinely comes first, and what can wait.
1. Register the death
In England, Wales and Northern Ireland the death is normally registered within 5 days; in Scotland it’s 8. You usually go to the register office for the area where the person died — book an appointment first. The registrar gives you the documents you’ll need for nearly everything that follows.
2. Order death certificates
Ask for several certified copies when you register (they’re cheaper bought at the same time). Many banks, pension providers and insurers insist on seeing an original — a photocopy won’t do — so a handful of copies saves a lot of waiting.
3. Tell the right people, once
The government’s Tell Us Once service reports the death to most departments — HMRC, DWP, the passport office, DVLA and the local council — in a single step. As his widow you may also be entitled to Bereavement Support Payment, so it’s worth checking.
4. Banks, pensions and bills
Contact his bank, any pension providers and insurers. Joint accounts usually pass to you, but each provider will explain their own process. Take meter readings if utility accounts need changing.
General information to help you find your way — not legal or financial advice. Last reviewed May 2026.