Report a death
Reporting a death to the registry office—usually handled by the funeral home—is a prerequisite for the burial and the issuance of a death certificate.
How to proceed
- 1
Obtain a death certificate
Issued by the attending physician or emergency physician.
- 2
Notify the Registry Office
The death must be reported no later than the third business day following the death, usually by the funeral home.
- 3
Obtain a death certificate
Required for inheritance matters, insurance, and pension offices.
Required documents
- Death CertificateMandatory
- Family Register or Birth CertificateMandatoryOften forgotten
Responsible authority
The authority of your main place of residence is responsible.Find authority →
Fees
Varies by case
Processing time
1 day
Official: max. 3 days
Online application
In person or by post
Common mistakes
- • The doctor's death certificate is missing
- • Family register not presented
The essentials before applying
Who is eligible?
Relatives or the funeral home that has been hired.
Income limit
The limit varies by household and region – see the table at the responsible authority or in the application assistant.
Processing time
Nationwide: approx. 1 day
Success rate
approx. 99.5 % (estimate)
Most common mistakes
- •The doctor's death certificate is missing
- •Family register not presented
Common reasons for rejection
Alternatives
- Check related services in the application assistant
- Use social counselling before applying
If rejected
Read the decision carefully: often submitting missing documents or reapplying helps more than an objection.
Related services
Questions & Answers
How many death certificates should you order?▼
It is recommended that you prepare multiple copies (usually 5–10), as banks, insurance companies, and government agencies each require their own copy.