Registering a Death

When someone dies it can be a stressful and upsetting time.  In this section there is information and guidance aimed at helping you through the registration process.

All deaths in Scotland must be registered within 8 days.

If the event took place outwith Scotland it must be registered in the country the death occurred.

In Glasgow we operate an appointment system for all death registrations.

How do I make an appointment?

Please allow sufficient time to arrange an appointment.  You can make an appointment by using our online booking system. Appointments are available Monday - Friday with the exception of Public Holidays.

The office is located at:
Service Desk
45 John Street
Glasgow
G1 1JQ

Who can register a death?

The death can be registered by:

• Any relative of the deceased; or
• Any person present when the person died; or
• The deceased's executor or other legal representative; or
• The occupier of the property where the person died; or if there is no such person,
• Anyone else who knows the information to be registered.

You must be 16 years of age to act as a qualified informant.

For more information please visit NRS - Deaths

What documents should I take to the Registrar?

• The medical certificate of cause of death issued by the doctor who certified the death or the hospital (MCCD)
• If readily available please also bring with you:
  • The deceased's birth certificate.
  • The deceased's marriage or civil partnership certificate, if applicable.
  • The deceased's medical card.

What documents will I receive?

• An abbreviated death certificate, which is issued free of charge;
• A certificate of registration of death (form 14) for production to the person in charge of the burial ground or crematorium;
• A social security registration or notification of death certificate (form BD8) for use in obtaining or adjusting social security benefits.
• Tell us once letter if you wish to use this service.
• A full death certificate can be purchased for the statutory fee of £10.00 each.

How do I pay?

The preferred method of payment at the service desk is by debit/credit card. Registration staff will be unable to accept cash payments. However, you will be able to pay for transactions involving cash/cheque at a separate cash office within the service desk.

Notifying other council services

Once the death has been registered the registrar will notify the electoral registration service, council tax and other local council services that the deceased may have used.

Tell Us Once

Once you have registered the death with a registrar, you will be given the option to use Tell Us Once.

For more information  please visit [408kb]

What happens if I am late for my appointment?

You should aim to arrive at the Service Desk in time for your appointment.  If you are late we may not be able to accommodate you, your appointment will be rescheduled.

Can I cancel or reschedule my appointment?

When you schedule an appointment, you will receive a confirmation email.  This email also includes instructions on how to cancel or reschedule your appointment. 

We only have a limited number of appointments that we can offer each day.  If you arrange an appointment and are unable to attend, please ensure that you cancel or reschedule your appointment.