Registering a Death

We appreciate the distress that is caused by a bereavement in the family. Registering the event is something that cannot be avoided, but our aim is to make the experience as simple as possible.

The following information may help prepare those facing the need to register a death at the Clackmannanshire Registration Office in Alloa.

Who can register a death in Scotland?

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.

How and where do I register a death?

Any death which occurs in Scotland must be registered within eight days by the Registrar. The law requires the death to be registered at any Registration Office within Scotland. The address and telephone number of the Clackmannanshire Registrar can be found at the bottom of this page.

What documents should I take to the registrar?

Any birth, marriage or civil partnership certificates relating to the deceased.

The following documents, if available, are also helpful:

The deceased's birth and marriage certificate.
The deceased's NHS medical card.
Any documents relating to the receipt of a pension or allowance from government funds.

Note: Do not worry if any of these documents are not available as the Registrar can still proceed to register the death.

When the registration is complete the registrar will give you, free of charge:

an abbreviated death certificate
a certificate of registration of death for production to the person in charge of the burial ground or crematorium;
a Social Security registration or notification of death certificate for use in obtaining or adjusting Social Security benefits.