What to Do When Someone Dies in Ireland – Practical Guidance

When Someone Dies in Ireland

Death is one of life’s most difficult experiences, and it often comes with many decisions that must be made quickly and under emotional stress. Whether the death was expected or sudden, this guide outlines the key steps to take and highlights support services available in Ireland.

Immediately Following the Death

Every death in Ireland must be identified and the cause of death established. If the death was sudden or unexpected, you may need to notify:

• The Gardaí
• The Coroner
• The family doctor (GP)
• The Registrar of Births, Marriages and Deaths
• The next of kin

If the deceased was an organ donor, act quickly if you are their nearest relative.
Funeral directors in Ireland can assist with all arrangements, including burial plots, cremation, and religious or non-religious services.

Registering the Death

To register a death, bring a medical certificate stating the cause of death to the local Registrar of Births, Marriages and Deaths.

If the doctor did not see the deceased within 28 days or is unsure of the cause of death, they must notify the Coroner. A post-mortem may be required, and if the cause remains unclear, an inquest may be held.

For stillborn children, registration is optional but may be done within 42 days.
Read more about registering a death on citizensinformation.ie.

Children

Bereavement can be deeply distressing for children. Barnardos offers counselling services for children who have lost someone close to them.

If the deceased leaves behind orphaned children under 18, immediate care arrangements must be made. Family members usually step in, but if none are available, the HSE Local Health Office will arrange care.

Access to Money

Accessing the deceased’s money can be difficult unless it’s in a joint account. If the account is solely in the deceased’s name, probate is usually required.

You may be eligible for social welfare benefits or grants to help with funeral costs.
For financial advice, the Money Advice and Budgeting Service (MABS) offers free, confidential support.

Legal Issues Following a Death

Legal matters may include:

• Access to the deceased’s estate
• Probate and executor duties
• Power of attorney
• Debt management
• Inheritance rights

Housing and Daily Living

Notify relevant organisations in writing, including:

• Mortgage providers or landlords
• Banks and building societies
• Insurance companies
• Utility providers
• Subscription services
• Local authority (for driving licence and electoral register updates)

Redirect post if the deceased lived alone, and inform any clubs or professional organisations they were part of.