Report a death

During these difficult periods, we understand that people may need further advice, help, or assistance with some of the paperwork required. In addition, community support can be invaluable. We have included helpful links below to guide you through these processes and provide additional support

Government Guidance: What to do when someone dies: step by step - GOV.UK - Guidance on formal processes following a bereavement.
West Sussex County Council Wellbeing Page Healthy mind > Community support through bereavement and loss / West Sussex Wellbeing / Provided by West Sussex County Council - Additional community and wellbeing support.

You should let us know when someone dies even if they were not named on the Council Tax bill for their home. In order to complete the form advising us of a death you will need the following information to hand:

  • the date of death
  • whether probate is being applied for
  • the name and address of the person dealing with the deceased's affairs
  • details of anyone else still living in the property
  • details of ownership/the landlord of the property
  • details of what will happen to the property if it is now empty

Advise us of a death

If the deceased lived alone

If the deceased was the only owner of the property and was either living there at the time of death or the property was empty then it will be exempt from Council Tax from the date of death until six months after the date of probate or the letters of administration are granted. You will need to apply for this exemption. 

If the property is sold, a tenancy is granted or anyone moves into the property during this exemption period the exemption will automatically end.

Where the deceased was a joint owner/tenant of a property at the date of death then the joint owner/tenant falls liable for the Council Tax from the date of death.

If the deceased lived with you

If the deceased person lived with you then you may be entitled to a reduction in your Council Tax. If you are now the only adult you will be entitled to a 25% single resident discount unless you also qualify for another discount or exemption.

If the deceased was a landlord or owned additional properties

If the deceased was the sole owner of any properties in addition to their main residence, then any secondary properties will only be eligible for an exemption if they were occupied on the day that the owner passed away. If the property is occupied by tenants, or becomes occupied after the owner passes away, then the property will not be liable for an exemption. 

In all cases, any one short occupation of less than 6 weeks following the death is disregarded for this exemption. E.g. if a tenancy ends within 6 weeks of the date of death, the property is eligible for exemption.