Notifying DWP (Department for Work and Pensions) of a Death
0800 151 2012Everything you need to notify DWP (Department for Work and Pensions) after a bereavement, including the dedicated phone number, required documents, and how long the process takes.
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 prepare a detailed explanation. A brief, straightforward call is all that is needed. Here is a simple script you can follow:
"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 guide you through the rest of the call. Have the death certificate, your photo ID, and any account details to hand before calling.
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 notify DWP (Department for Work and Pensions) by calling their bereavement team on 0800 151 2012. Have the death certificate and your identification ready before you make contact.
What documents does DWP (Department for Work and Pensions) need for bereavement?
DWP (Department for Work and Pensions) typically requires: National Insurance number of the deceased, Date of death, Details of any benefits the deceased was receiving. It is a good idea to have certified copies of the death certificate ready, as originals may be retained temporarily.
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