How to Notify LGPS of a Death: Pension Bereavement Guide 2026

How to notify LGPS of a death — step by step

1. Identify the administering authority

   The LGPS is administered by 86 separate pension funds across England and Wales, each run by a different local authority. Find the correct fund by searching lgpsmember.org using the employer's name or location.

2. Contact the correct pension fund directly

   Each fund has its own contact details, forms, and processes. Most have a dedicated bereavement team. Contact them by phone or using their online bereavement form, providing the deceased's full name, date of birth, National Insurance number, and date of death.

3. Claim the death grant

   Active members and those who retired in the last 10 years may be entitled to a lump sum death grant. The amount varies but is typically up to 10 times the annual pension for active members.

4. Enquire about a survivor's pension

   A spouse, civil partner, or nominated cohabiting partner may be entitled to a survivor's pension. Children's pensions may also be payable. The fund will calculate entitlements based on the member's service record.

What documents does LGPS need?

• Death certificate (certified copy)
• LGPS membership number or NI number
• Name of employer or local authority
• Marriage or civil partnership certificate
• Children's birth certificates (if applicable)

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.

How long does LGPS take?

LGPS typically takes 4–10 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.

Because the LGPS has 86 funds, timescales and processes vary. Some funds operate faster than others. Always confirm which fund administered the deceased's pension before making contact.

What happens after you notify LGPS?

Once LGPS 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.

LGPS 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.

What cannot wait