Notifying Royal Bank of Scotland of a Death
0800 161 5904Everything you need to let Royal Bank of Scotland know, including their dedicated bereavement number, the documents to have ready, and how long it usually takes. Their team handle these calls every day and will be patient with you.
Bereavement Phone
Mon-Fri 9am-5pm (excl. bank holidays)
International: +44 (0)1204 684 659
Online Form
Typical Timeline
Same process as NatWest Group. Condolence letter with BER reference issued.
How to notify Royal Bank of Scotland
Online: Use the digital bereavement notification service (quickest)
Phone: Call 0800 161 5904
Branch: Visit any RBS, NatWest, or Ulster Bank branch
Death Notification Service
Documents you will need
- Death certificate
- Will or Codicil
- Grant of Representation / Certificate of Confirmation
- Completed Account Closure Form
Unsure whether probate is needed?
If the estate is complex or the balance exceeds the bank's threshold, a probate solicitor can handle the whole process. Compare local solicitors and get free quotes through Unbiased.
Joint vs sole accounts
Joint accounts
Joint accounts updated to surviving account holder's name.
Sole accounts
Sole accounts protected immediately upon notification.
What to say when you call
You do not need to explain anything at length. A short, straightforward call is all this takes. If it helps, read the words below straight off the screen. Nobody will mind.
"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 take it from there and guide you through the rest. Have the death certificate, your photo ID, and any account details beside you before you ring.
Additional information
- Part of NatWest Group
- Same process and forms as NatWest
Frequently asked questions
How do I notify Royal Bank of Scotland of a death?
You can let Royal Bank of Scotland know by calling their bereavement team on 0800 161 5904, or by filling in their online bereavement form. Have the death certificate and your own identification beside you before you get in touch.
What documents does Royal Bank of Scotland need for bereavement?
Royal Bank of Scotland usually asks for: Death certificate, Will or Codicil, Grant of Representation / Certificate of Confirmation, Completed Account Closure Form. It helps to have certified copies of the death certificate ready, as originals are sometimes held on to for a while.
How long does Royal Bank of Scotland take to process a bereavement?
Same process as NatWest Group. Condolence letter with BER reference issued.
Can I access a Royal Bank of Scotland account without probate?
Whether you can access a Royal 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 Royal Bank of Scotland account when someone dies?
Joint accounts updated to surviving account holder's name.
Need to write to Royal 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