How to Redirect Post After a Death
Redirecting post helps you catch important letters and stop unwanted mail arriving at the old address. This guide covers Royal Mail redirection and how to register with the Bereavement Register.
Last reviewed: 4 April 2026
What to have ready
- ✓Deceased’s full name and the address you want mail redirected from
- ✓The address you want mail redirected to (one destination address per application)
- ✓Original death certificate or official copy
- ✓Your own photo ID (passport or driving licence)
- ✓Payment (check https://royalmail.com/redirection for the current price)
Step-by-step guide
What to ask for
- –Confirm the start date of the redirection
- –Whether the redirection covers only the deceased or can include other names at the address
- –How to renew the redirection if it needs to continue beyond the initial period
- –Confirmation receipt
Watch out
Redirection only covers incoming post. It does not stop mail from being generated. You still need to update your address with individual organisations (banks, insurers, etc.) or cancel accounts to stop post at source. Also consider registering with the Bereavement Register (https://thebereavementregister.org.uk) - this is a free service that stops most unsolicited marketing mail addressed to the deceased. The Mailing Preference Service (https://mpsonline.org.uk) can also help reduce unwanted mail. Set a calendar reminder to renew or cancel the redirection before it expires.
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Frequently asked questions
For more detail, see our full guide: Read guide →