What are death-in-service benefits?

Death-in-service is a benefit provided by many employers that pays a lump sum (usually 2 to 4 times the annual salary) to the family or estate of an employee who dies while employed. It is paid through the workplace pension scheme and is usually tax-free.

Why do I need the P45?

The P45 shows the deceased person's earnings and tax paid up to the date of death. HMRC needs this to calculate whether any tax refund is due to the estate.

I am finding it hard to make this call - is that normal?

Absolutely. Calling someone's workplace can bring up a lot of emotions. You could ask a trusted friend or family member to make the call on your behalf, or start with an email if that feels easier. There is no wrong way to do this.

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Financial3 min

How to Notify an Employer When Someone Dies

If the person who died was employed, their employer needs to be told. There may be final salary, death-in-service benefits, or a workplace pension to claim. This guide helps you handle a difficult conversation with confidence.

Last reviewed: 4 April 2026

What to have ready

✓Death certificate or reference number
✓The deceased person's employee number or payroll reference if known
✓Your own identification and proof of your relationship or executor status
✓A pen for noting down reference numbers and contact details

Phone script

You can read this aloud when you call. Placeholders like [full name] are filled in automatically when you use AfterLoss.

I am calling to let you know that [full name], who worked in [department or role if known], has passed away. They died on [date of death]. I am their [relationship, e.g. spouse/son/daughter] and the [executor/administrator] of the estate.

What to ask for

–Any final salary or wages owed, including holiday pay
–Whether there is a death-in-service benefit (this is often 2 to 4 times the annual salary)
–Details of any workplace pension scheme and how to make a claim
–A P45 for the deceased - this is needed for their final tax affairs
–How to collect any personal belongings from the workplace
–Whether there is an Employee Assistance Programme that offers support to families

Watch out

Death-in-service benefits can be substantial - often 2 to 4 times the annual salary - so always ask about this. The benefit is usually paid at the discretion of the pension trustees, and they will need a completed expression of wish or nomination form. If the deceased did not complete one, the trustees will decide who receives the payment.

Email template

Subject: Notification of death - [full name], [employee number if known]

Dear HR Department, I am writing to inform you of the death of [full name], who worked as [job title/department if known]. They passed away on [date of death]. I am the [executor/administrator] of the estate. My name is [your name] and my contact details are [your email] / [your phone number]. Please could you advise on: - Any final salary, wages, or holiday pay owed - Whether a death-in-service benefit applies - Details of any workplace pension scheme - How to obtain a P45 - How to arrange collection of any personal belongings I would be grateful if you could let me know what documentation you need from me to process these matters. Yours faithfully, [your name]

Some employers are slow to process death-in-service claims. If you have not heard back within 2 weeks, follow up. The P45 is important for HMRC so request it specifically.

Template letter

You can copy this letter and print it, or use the email version above.

[your name]

[your address]

[your phone number]

[your email]

[Organisation name]

[Organisation address]

[today's date]

Re: Notification of death - [full name], [employee number if known]

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Frequently asked questions

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