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When someone dies, notifying DWP is one of the key tasks for the executor or next of kin. This guide explains exactly who to contact, what to say, what documents you will need, and how long DWP takes to process a bereavement notification.
DWP bereavement contact details
Phone: 0800 151 2012 — Mon–Fri 8am–6pm(dedicated bereavement line)
Online: Tell Us Once — notify multiple government departments online
Last verified: May 2026
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The DWP Bereavement Service (0800 151 2012) handles all DWP-related notifications including State Pension, Universal Credit, Personal Independence Payment, Employment and Support Allowance, and Carer's Allowance. Alternatively, use the Tell Us Once service at gov.uk/tell-us-once to notify DWP and other government departments simultaneously.
You will need the deceased's full name, date of birth, date of death, and National Insurance number. If they were receiving benefits, have the payment reference numbers to hand.
If you were receiving Carer's Allowance for the deceased or your household income changes due to the death, your own benefit entitlement may change. Report this to DWP at the same time.
You may be entitled to Bereavement Support Payment if your spouse or civil partner died and you were under State Pension age. Claim within 21 months of the death to receive the full amount.
Have multiple certified copies of the death certificate ready. Banks and financial institutions each require an original or certified copy — you cannot usually pass a single copy between organisations. See our guide to how many death certificates you need.
DWP typically takes 2–6 weeks to process a bereavement notification once all required documents have been received.
During this period, accounts or services will typically be frozen until the estate is administered. This means no new transactions can be authorised.
DWP may ask for repayment of any benefit paid after the date of death. Keep records of all contact including call reference numbers.
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Once DWP receives your notification and confirms receipt, the account or service will be frozen and no new transactions will be authorised. Estate administration can then begin.
DWP will confirm receipt of your notification and advise you of any next steps required to close or transfer the account or policy. Keep a record of all correspondence and reference numbers for the estate file.
Do not delay notifying DWP
Direct debits and standing orders may continue to be charged after death. Some organisations treat the estate as the debtor for any charges incurred before notification. Notifying DWP promptly protects the estate from unnecessary costs.
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