Unsolicited mail is usually sent by companies as part of a mass-mailing marketing campaign. It can cover anything including promotional literature and offers from broadband service providers to introductory offers of credit cards and loans
The Deceased Preference Service
Continuing to receive unsolicited mail addressed to the deceased can be quite distressing and upsetting for relatives. Registering with the Deceased Preference Service is a good way to help bring a stop to most unsolicited mail.What mail the service does not stop?
The service does not prevent official mail items such as:- Bank account statements
- Credit card statements
- HMRC post
- Bills such as utility and bank statements
- Premium bonds
Organisations such as those detailed above need to be contacted individually to notify them of the death.
About registering with the service?
Registering with the Deceased Preference Service is quick and easily done online at www.deceasedpreferenceservice.co.uk or if you prefer, you can register by post by printing off the registration form, completing it then sending it freepost. Even if the death occurred some time ago, you can still use the service to stop unsolicited mail. The organisations that the Deceased Preference Service contact tend to update their records with the information that is sent to them on a monthly basis. This means that unsolicited mail may continue for a few weeks before their database catches up.Combating Identity Fraud
Impersonation of the Deceased (IOD) fraud is a major problem. The sharing of death records not only prevents unsolicited mail but can help combat identity fraud. Until quite recently, it has been difficult for law and credit agencies to access death records, making it easier for fraudsters to impersonate the deceased by copying details from obituaries. To find that a loved one’s identity has been impersonated following their death can be particularly upsetting, so not only will using the Deceased Preference Service help stop unsolicited mail but it could help reduce fraud too.A free and confidential service
The Deceased Preference Service is completely free of charge. The data that the service supplies is covered by the Data Protection Act and is not used for any other purposes.Speaking to someone at the Deceased Preference Service
If you feel you need to speak to someone at the Deceased Preference Service, please call 0800 068 4433 during office hours.Registering is free: deceasedpreferenceservice.co.uk
Reviewed by the Arranging a Funeral team - September 2026.
See also Tell Us Once.
Common questions
How do I stop advertising post addressed to someone who has died?
Register them with the Deceased Preference Service, which is free. It stops most unsolicited mail.
Does it stop bank statements and bills?
No. Banks, credit card companies, HMRC, utility companies and Premium Bonds need to be told separately.
How long before the post stops?
It may carry on for a few weeks while companies update their records.
Can I register if the death was some time ago?
Yes.