Most families underestimate how many certified copies of the death certificate they will need. The original certificate issued by the register office cannot be photocopied and used — each institution requires its own certified copy.
Buying too few at registration is a common and costly mistake. Additional copies ordered later cost the same per copy but require a separate application and can take several weeks to arrive.
— Each bank or building society — one per institution.
— Each pension provider — one per pension.
— Life insurance companies — one per policy.
— The mortgage provider if your loved one owned property.
— The Grant of Probate application — usually one or two copies.
— HMRC if filing a final tax return.
— The employer if your loved one was still working.
— Utility companies and landlords sometimes ask for one.
— Solicitors handling the estate — they may need one or two.
As a general rule, buy one copy for each financial institution your loved one held accounts with, plus two extra. For most families this means between six and ten copies. If the estate is complex — multiple pensions, property, investments — buy ten to twelve.
Certified copies cost £11 each in England and Wales when purchased at registration. Ordering additional copies later costs the same per copy but involves more time and paperwork.
You can order additional certified copies from the General Register Office online or by post. Processing typically takes five to fifteen working days. If you need them urgently, some local register offices offer a same-day or priority service — contact your local office directly.
Behalf gives you a complete checklist of everyone who needs notifying after a death — so you know exactly how many certificates you need.