Frequently Asked Questions
Where do I get a Death Certificate?
The process depends on where the death occurred:
In a hospital:
The hospital usually notifies the Registrar. Copies of the Death Certificate can then be obtained from the local Civil Registration Office.
At home or in a nursing home:
The GP provides a Medical Certificate of the Cause of Death. This is brought to the Civil Registration Office, where the death is registered and certificates can be issued.
If a post-mortem takes place:
The Coroner registers the death. Certificates are then available from the Civil Registration Office.
We can guide you through this process and let you know where your nearest office is located.
Do I need to register the death before arranging the funeral?
No. You can begin making funeral arrangements once you have spoken with us and decided whether you prefer burial or cremation.
The registration simply needs to be completed in due course and does not delay the funeral planning.
Are there any grants or financial supports?
Some supports may be available depending on personal circumstances:
• Certain social welfare payments may continue for six weeks after a death
• Some credit unions provide a death benefit for members
• Other supports may be available based on PRSI contributions or household circumstances
These can vary, and we can advise you on where to check eligibility.
Can someone continue receiving social welfare payments after a death?
Yes. In many cases, an adult dependent may continue receiving certain payments for a period of six weeks.
Payments such as a widow’s or widower’s pension generally begin after this period.
Your local Intreo or social welfare office can give the most up-to-date information.
We are not a religious family. Do we need to have a church service?
No. Families can choose the type of ceremony that best suits them.
Options include:
• A non-religious or humanist ceremony
• A service led by a celebrant
• A gathering with music, poetry or readings
• A short committal service at our funeral home before burial or cremation
We can organise any of these and guide you through what each option involves.
Can you help with bereavement support?
Yes. If you would like to speak with a bereavement counsellor or would like guidance on supports available locally or online, we can arrange this for you.
Who arranges flowers, musicians and notices?
We take care of all third-party arrangements, including:
• Church or venue bookings
• Cemetery or crematorium arrangements
• Florists
• Musicians and soloists
• Newspaper and online notices
You can be as involved as you wish, and we keep you updated at each stage.
Do you arrange transport?
Yes. All required vehicles for the funeral are organised by us, including additional cars on request.
AFTER-FUNERAL INFORMATION
Many practical tasks arise after the funeral, and it can help to have a clear guide to follow. Every family moves at their own pace, and there is no need to complete everything immediately.
Common tasks may include:
• Ordering a Death Certificate
• Contacting banks, insurance providers or utility companies
• Checking entitlement to social welfare supports
• Deciding on a final resting place for ashes if cremation has taken place
• Arranging headstone or grave inscriptions
• Informing relevant organisations about the death
• Managing legal or financial matters as needed
These can feel overwhelming, and support is available.
A Helpful Resource: The Next Steps
To support families after the funeral, we recommend using The Next Steps, an online guide with:
• Practical checklists
• Legal and financial information
• Advice on documentation
• Guidance on memorial options
• Grief and aftercare support
You can access it here. This resource is free to use, easy to navigate and can be revisited any time.
