Edition note: This guide targets 2014 5E (legacy PHB-style rules). If your table uses the 2024 Player's Handbook, confirm wording, class lists, and any renamed features before locking a build.
Toll the Dead is the Cleric/Warlock/Wizard cantrip that rewards finishing fights. You point at a creature and a sickening bell tolls; it makes a Wisdom saving throw or takes necrotic damage — d12 instead of d8 if it is missing any hit points.
This Toll the Dead 5E guide covers the damage swing, save type, and when Sacred Flame is still better.
- Spell Level
- Cantrip
- Spell Type
- Necromancy
- Casting Time
- 1 Action
- Range
- 60 feet
- Component Requirements
- Verbal, Somatic
- Duration
- Instantaneous
- Class
- Cleric, Warlock, Wizard
How does Toll the Dead work?
You point at one creature you can see within range, and the sound of a mournful bell fills the air around it for a moment. The target must succeed on a Wisdom saving throw or take 1d8 necrotic damage. If the target is missing any of its hit points, it instead takes 1d12 necrotic damage.
The dice scale with character level like other cantrips (confirm your print for the exact breakpoints).
Why the d12 clause is strong
Most mid-fight targets are already damaged. That quietly turns Toll the Dead into one of the highest expected-damage cantrips available to full casters — especially versus low-Wisdom brutes.
Toll the Dead vs Sacred Flame
| Toll the Dead | Sacred Flame | |
|---|---|---|
| Save | Wisdom | Dexterity (ignores cover) |
| Damage type | Necrotic | Radiant |
| Hurt-target bonus | d12 | No |
Pick Sacred Flame against covered archers and radiant-vulnerable undead. Pick Toll the Dead against injured, low-Wisdom monsters.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does temporary HP count as “missing hit points”?
No. Temporary hit points are not real hit points. The target must be below its hit point maximum.
Can undead be immune?
Some undead resist or are immune to necrotic. Sacred Flame’s radiant damage is often safer against them.
Is Wisdom save better than Dexterity save?
Depends on the monster. Brutes fail Wis more; rogues and dragons often pass Dex. Mix cantrips when you can.
