What to Do When Someone Dies in Ireland

The practical steps after a death can feel impossible to navigate when you are grieving. This guide covers what needs to happen and when — from the first phone calls to the longer process of settling the estate. If you'd rather have a plan built around your situation, answer a few questions and we'll put one together →

In the first hours

If the death was expected — at home under palliative care — call the GP. They will attend to certify the death and issue a Medical Certificate of Cause of Death (MCCD). If the deceased was in hospital, staff will handle certification and notify next of kin.

If the death was sudden or unexpected, call 112 or 999. The Gardaí will attend and, if required, refer the matter to the Coroner. The body may not be released until the Coroner’s process is complete.

Once death is certified, contact a funeral director. They will arrange collection of the deceased and guide you through the registration process. You do not need to make all decisions immediately.

Registering the death

Deaths must be registered at a local Civil Registration Office — find yours at hse.ie. Registration is typically completed by the funeral director using the MCCD, but a family member can also attend in person.

You will receive a Death Registration Form which can be used to notify multiple government bodies at once through the Department of Social Protection’s Life Events service. Order at least 8 to 10 certified copies of the death certificate — each bank, insurer, and government body will typically require its own copy.

In the first days

Notify close family and friends. If the deceased was employed, contact their HR department to ask about outstanding wages, group life insurance, and death-in-service benefits.

Locate the will. Check filing cabinets, home safes, or contact the deceased’s solicitor. The will names an executor who has legal authority to administer the estate. If there is no will, the estate passes under the Succession Act 1965 — a solicitor can advise on the process.

In the first week

Department of Social Protection

Call 0818 927 999 or visit your local Intreo Centre to stop any DSP payments and ask about survivor payments such as the Bereaved Partner’s (Contributory) Pension and Guardian’s Payment. Overpayments made after the date of death must be returned.

Revenue Commissioners

Notify Revenue at 01 738 3600 or through ros.ie. A final income tax return must be filed for the deceased for the year of death. If the estate earns income during administration, a separate estate return may also be required.

Private pensions and life insurance

Contact each pension provider and life insurer promptly. Pension death benefits may not form part of the estate — they are typically distributed per the deceased’s written nomination or at the trustee’s discretion. Request claim forms as soon as possible.

Credit union

Many credit unions provide Death Benefit Insurance free to members, paying a multiple of the member’s savings on death. Contact any credit union the deceased was a member of — this benefit is often unclaimed.

Documents you will need

• Certified copies of the death certificate (8–10)
• PPS number of the deceased
• Will (if applicable)
• Birth and marriage certificates
• Bank and financial account details
• Property title deeds (if applicable)
• Pension and insurance policy documents

Probate and the estate

If the estate includes property or significant assets, you will likely need a Grant of Probate (where there is a will) or Letters of Administration (where there is no will), issued by the Probate Office of the High Court.

Small estates without real property may not require formal probate — contact each institution to ask what they need. A solicitor experienced in probate can advise on the process and on any Capital Acquisitions Tax (CAT) obligations for beneficiaries.