When a loved one has passed, the last thing on most people’s minds is bureaucracy, and yet, that is what they get. So many forms, so many certificates; it’s an unwanted minefield when all you want to do is plan the perfect, heartfelt send-off. So, what do they all mean, and why do you need them? Allow us to break down all the jargon, so you can get back to what really matters.
In the UK, several different certificates are issued following a death, each serving a distinct purpose. Understanding them can help make the process less overwhelming.
Medical Certificate of Cause of Death (MCCD)
This is issued by the attending medical practitioner; the doctor who cared for the person in their final illness and is familiar with their medical history. It states the cause and time of death and is essential for registering the death. Without it, the Registrar of Births, Deaths and Marriages cannot issue other necessary certificates. According to UK Government guidance, the MCCD must be completed promptly: within five days unless the coroner is involved.
Certificate of Registration of Death (BD8)
Commonly known as the “white form,” this free document is used to inform the Department for Work & Pensions (DWP) to stop pension or benefit payments. The registrar will provide it, and you can either post it or take it to your local Jobcentre.
Certified Copy of an Entry of Death
This is what is known colloquially as the “death certificate,” and is a certified copy of the official register entry. It serves as legal proof of death and must be purchased — currently £12.50 per copy. Unfortunately, as these are legal documents, copies must come from the registrar and photocopies are not accepted.
Certificate for Burial or Cremation (“green form”)
Issued free of charge by the registrar, this authorises burial or cremation. The registrar will email it directly to your chosen funeral director, as the funeral cannot proceed without it. If the coroner is involved, a different form will be issued.
Interim Certificate of the Fact of Death
If there is to be an inquest, the death won’t be registered until after it concludes. In the meantime, the coroner will provide an interim certificate, which can be used instead of the death certificate.
The MCCD is the starting point. Without it, you cannot legally register the death. Once provided to the registrar, it triggers the issue of the other relevant documents.
The BD8 form ensures pensions and benefits are stopped, and the certified copy of the death certificate is the official legal proof of death. It is required for:
The green form allows burial or cremation to go ahead, whilst the interim certificate is a temporary legal document where a coroner’s investigation delays formal registration.
Fortunately, most families only have to concern themselves with two key documents:
Fortunately, if you name a funeral director when registering the death, you shouldn’t have to handle the green form yourself; the registrar will simply send it straight to your funeral director, and they will handle everything else for you. Equally, the medical certificate is most often sent directly from the doctor to the registrar, though you may be asked to ensure it has been issued.
That’s the age old question isn’t it? A bit like asking how long a ball of string is, there is no one particular answer, however certified copies of the death certificate are the most important form for families, so it’s often wise to order several copies at the time of registration. At £12.50 each, they are essential for:
Some organisations will return the certificate after processing; others will not, so having multiple copies can save time and stress – six copies is usually a good amount to request.
Planning a funeral can be a difficult job, but it is often one that benefits from a clear vision and a conversation between one or two people and a funeral director. But what happens if that person hasn’t been named in the will? Knowing who has the legal standing to make these arrangements is vital to ensure your loved one receives the send-off they deserve without unnecessary family conflict.
As a family-run funeral director operating across the southeast, we know that when you are facing the difficult task of planning a funeral, having a reputable, local funeral director helps to make that task just a little bit easier. We are honoured to have been shortlisted as finalists at the Tonbridge Business Awards 2026. For us, it is always a pleasure to see our hard work formally recognised, but for you and your family in Tonbridge, this award represents the peace of mind needed to know you are in safe hands.
When a loved one passes away, it is your legal duty to notify the government and register the death. However, in such a trying time, the government’s ‘Tell Us Once’ service allows families peace of mind and removes additional administrative stress.
We're here to help
We’re here to help with care and compassion. If we can be of assistance please contact us for support or guidance using the following form.
