What to do in the 30 days after a death
Losing a loved one also means having to work through formalities without knowing where to begin. This clear checklist tells you who to notify, which organisations to contact and by when, step by step.
The first days · D+0 to D+7
The essential steps
These steps are a priority and often subject to short deadlines.
- 1
Register the death at the town hall
Registration is done at the town hall of the place of death, generally within 24 hours (excluding weekends and public holidays). Ask for several full copies of the death certificate: many organisations will require them.
- 2
Arrange the funeral
Contact a funeral home. Check whether the deceased had a funeral plan or left written wishes.
- 3
Notify the employer or ongoing bodies
If the person was employed, inform their employer. If they received benefits or were a jobseeker, notify the relevant bodies.
The first month · D+7 to D+30
Notify and update
Each organisation you notify will generally ask for a copy of the death certificate.
- 4
Notify the bank
Report the death to each bank: individual accounts are then frozen. A death certificate will be required.
- 5
Contact social security bodies
Health insurance, pension funds, complementary insurance, allowances depending on the situation. Some pensions stop, while other rights may open up, such as a survivor's pension.
- 6
Notify insurers
Home, car, personal protection: report the death to adjust or cancel the policies.
- 7
Search for life insurance policies
If you believe you are a beneficiary but are unaware of a policy, the search is free via AGIRA (see below). Never pay a private service for this.
- 8
Cancel or transfer subscriptions
Energy, water, phone, internet, press, platforms: cancel or transfer according to the home's needs.
- 9
Contact a notary for the estate
A notary is required in particular where there is real estate, a will or a marriage contract. They guide you through the estate declaration.
- 10
Inform the tax authorities
The estate tax declaration generally takes place within six months of the death in mainland France. Prepare the documents without delay.
Life insurance procedures are free
Finding a life insurance policy and recovering the sums due is done through free public services. Be wary of paid websites offering this service.
Vitalegis is neither a notary, nor a will, nor a fund recovery service. This checklist is provided for information only and does not replace professional advice.
Frequently asked questions
How long do you have to report a death?
The death is usually reported to the town hall of the place of death within 24 hours, excluding weekends and public holidays.
Is the death certificate free of charge?
No. Copies of the death certificate are issued free of charge by the town hall. Ask for several: many organisations will require them.
How can you find out whether the deceased had life insurance?
The search is free through AGIRA. Never pay a private service for this: public bodies handle it at no cost.
Does Vitalegis replace a notary?
No. Vitalegis organises and passes on practical information. It replaces neither the notary nor the organisations involved, and gives no legal advice.
Get the printable checklist
Receive the printable version of this checklist by email, to keep or share with a loved one.