Farra is a death administration assistant for UK families. Get step-by-step guidance for registering a death, applying for probate, notifying banks, and managing bereavement admin. From essential documents to practical checklists, Farra simplifies estate paperwork and funeral-related tasks so you can focus on what matters.
Need to apply for probate?
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Call 999 if death unexpected or call GP/out-of-hours (111) if expected. Don't move the body or disturb the scene. A doctor verifies death and issues Medical Certificate of Cause of Death. Body can stay at home 24-48 hours. Contact funeral director once certificate issued. Register death within 5 days.
Take a moment to breathe. While this is distressing, you have time to make the right decisions. Here's what to do immediately:
The steps you take depend on whether the death was expected or not:
The person was terminally ill, elderly with declining health, or under palliative care. Their doctor expected this outcome.
Sudden death, accident, suicide, or when you're unsure of the cause. The person was not under medical care for a terminal condition.
If you're unsure whether the death was expected, call 999. It's better to err on the side of caution.
You need a medical certificate of cause of death to register the death:
Without this certificate, you cannot register the death or arrange the funeral.
Once you have the medical certificate:
When someone dies at home, you have time to make thoughtful decisions. The professionals who attend will guide you with respect and understanding. Take it one step at a time.
A complete guide for surviving spouses: the first few days, your finances and home, benefits you may be entitled to, and dealing with the estate.
A practical guide for adult children: registering the death, finding the will, notifying organisations, and dealing with the estate.
A practical step-by-step guide to handling death admin in the UK — from the first 5 days to dealing with the estate.
Complete guide to hospital death procedures, bereavement offices, and collecting belongings and documentation.
Critical tasks for the first 24 hours after someone dies. A clear, prioritized checklist when you're overwhelmed.
Ready to apply for probate?
Answer 15 questions and we'll tell you exactly what to file, in what order, and what to do when it gets complicated.
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