Notifying Bank of Scotland of a Death
0345 835 5641Everything you need to notify Bank of Scotland after a bereavement, including the dedicated phone number, required documents, and how long the process takes.
Online Form
Typical Timeline
Varies depending on estate complexity.
How to notify Bank of Scotland
Phone: Call 0345 835 5641 (Telephone Banking)
Online: Complete the bereavement notification form
Branch: Visit any Bank of Scotland branch
If bank named as executor: Call Estates Administration on 0800 056 0171
Documents you will need
- Death certificate (original or certified copy)
- Completed bereavement form
- Grant of Probate / Certificate of Confirmation (Scotland) if required
Joint vs sole accounts
Joint accounts
Joint accounts transferred to surviving account holder.
Sole accounts
Sole accounts frozen pending estate administration.
What to say when you call
You do not need to prepare a detailed explanation. A brief, straightforward call is all that is needed. Here is a simple script you can follow:
"Hello, I am calling to notify you of a death. The account holder was [full name], and the date of death was [date]."
"I am their [relationship, e.g. son/daughter/executor]. My reference number from the death registration is [Tell Us Once reference number, if you have one]."
"Could you let me know what documents you need and what the next steps are?"
The bereavement team will guide you through the rest of the call. Have the death certificate, your photo ID, and any account details to hand before calling.
Additional information
- Part of Lloyds Banking Group
- Estates Administration Service: 0800 056 0171
Frequently asked questions
How do I notify Bank of Scotland of a death?
You can notify Bank of Scotland by calling their bereavement team on 0345 835 5641, or by completing their online bereavement form. Have the death certificate and your identification ready before you make contact.
What documents does Bank of Scotland need for bereavement?
Bank of Scotland typically requires: Death certificate (original or certified copy), Completed bereavement form, Grant of Probate / Certificate of Confirmation (Scotland) if required. It is a good idea to have certified copies of the death certificate ready, as originals may be retained temporarily.
How long does Bank of Scotland take to process a bereavement?
Varies depending on estate complexity.
Can I access a Bank of Scotland account without probate?
Whether you can access a Bank of Scotland account without probate depends on the balance and account type. Contact their bereavement team to discuss your specific circumstances, as they may be able to release small balances without a grant.
What happens to a joint Bank of Scotland account when someone dies?
Joint accounts transferred to surviving account holder.
Need to write to Bank of Scotland?
Use our ready-made template letters to notify banks, utilities, and other organisations. Just fill in the details and send.
View Template Letters