How to notify NatWest of a death
Last reviewed September 2026
Contact the NatWest bereavement team
0800 161 5903Tap to call. Lines are open Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm (webchat Monday to Friday 8am to 5pm).
Prefer not to call? Use the online form instead.
Things you might need
- Their full name, date of birth and address
- Death certificate, scan
- ID for the executor or person notifying
Death certificate and will if there is one. Certificates issued outside the UK or not in English need a certified translation. Accounts are usually closed within 10 working days of all documents arriving.
Let Alenity take care of the notifications
Find the banks, pensions and utilities to tell. We can handle the notifications and replies.
Start with a statement, a bill, their address or a list.
Official NatWest bereavement page
NatWest is part of the Death Notification Service, so you can tell it alongside other member banks in one go.
Don't cancel direct debits before you notify them. The bank will freeze and review payments as part of the bereavement process, and cancelling early can leave insurance or utilities unpaid.
What usually happens next
- Accounts in their sole name are usually frozen once NatWest is told. Joint accounts normally pass to the surviving holder.
- Whether you need probate depends on the total held and the bank's own limit, not a single legal figure.
- Many banks will pay a funeral invoice straight from the account before probate, on sight of the bill.
Common questions about NatWest
How do I notify NatWest of a death?
NatWest's preferred channel is online form. Use their official online form, linked on this page. Or call 0800 161 5903.
What documents does NatWest need?
Death certificate and will if there is one. Certificates issued outside the UK or not in English need a certified translation. Accounts are usually closed within 10 working days of all documents arriving.
How long does NatWest take to respond?
Response times vary; the official NatWest page is linked here.
Notify another company
Related guides
What is probate?
What it means, when you need it, what it costs and how to apply yourself.
What to do when someone dies
The full UK checklist, from the first 24 hours through probate.
Death admin checklist
A week-by-week task list. Printable PDF available.
Tell Us Once explained
How the free government service notifies HMRC, DWP and your council in one go.
Closing accounts after death
Step-by-step for banks, utilities, pensions and subscriptions.
Bereavement financial help
Benefits and grants you may be entitled to claim.
Probate explained
When you need it, what it costs, and whether you need a solicitor.
Arranging a funeral
Every option and what it costs, and how to choose a funeral director.
Prepare your probate application
Gather the estate details, check what you need and build a pack before you apply yourself.
Funeral cost calculator
Estimate a funeral for your area and the choices you are making.
This page is general guidance and is not legal or financial advice.
