Notifying DWP (Department for Work and Pensions) of a Death
0800 151 2012Everything you need to let DWP (Department for Work and Pensions) know, including their dedicated bereavement number, the documents to have ready, and how long it usually takes. Their team handle these calls every day and will be patient with you.
Online Form
No online form available. Use the phone number or post instead.
Typical Timeline
Benefits will be stopped. Any overpayments may need to be repaid from the estate. Bereavement benefits may be claimable by the surviving spouse/civil partner.
How to notify DWP (Department for Work and Pensions)
Tell Us Once: Preferred method (notifies DWP automatically)
Phone: Call 0800 151 2012 (Bereavement Service)
Welsh language: 0800 731 0453
Relay UK: 18001 0800 151 2012
Textphone: 0800 731 0464
Documents you will need
- National Insurance number of the deceased
- Date of death
- Details of any benefits the deceased was receiving
What to say when you call
You do not need to explain anything at length. A short, straightforward call is all this takes. If it helps, read the words below straight off the screen. Nobody will mind.
"Hello, I am calling to notify you of a death. The account holder was [full name], and the date of death was [date]."
"I am their [relationship, e.g. son/daughter/executor]. My reference number from the death registration is [Tell Us Once reference number, if you have one]."
"Could you let me know what documents you need and what the next steps are?"
The bereavement team will take it from there and guide you through the rest. Have the death certificate, your photo ID, and any account details beside you before you ring.
Additional information
- DWP runs the Tell Us Once service on behalf of most government departments
- Bereavement Support Payment may be available to surviving spouse/civil partner
- Funeral Expenses Payment may be available for those on certain benefits
Frequently asked questions
How do I notify DWP (Department for Work and Pensions) of a death?
You can let DWP (Department for Work and Pensions) know by calling their bereavement team on 0800 151 2012. Have the death certificate and your own identification beside you before you get in touch.
What documents does DWP (Department for Work and Pensions) need for bereavement?
DWP (Department for Work and Pensions) usually asks for: National Insurance number of the deceased, Date of death, Details of any benefits the deceased was receiving. It helps to have certified copies of the death certificate ready, as originals are sometimes held on to for a while.
How long does DWP (Department for Work and Pensions) take to process a bereavement?
Benefits will be stopped. Any overpayments may need to be repaid from the estate. Bereavement benefits may be claimable by the surviving spouse/civil partner.
Need to write to DWP (Department for Work and Pensions)?
Use our ready-made template letters to notify banks, utilities, and other organisations. Just fill in the details and send.
View Template Letters