How to notify Royal Bank of Scotland of a death
Last reviewed May 2026
Contact the Royal Bank of Scotland bereavement team
0800 161 5904Tap to call.
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
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 Royal Bank of Scotland bereavement page
Check whether Royal Bank of Scotland is on the Death Notification Service list before contacting them separately.
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 Royal Bank of Scotland 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 Royal Bank of Scotland
How do I notify Royal Bank of Scotland of a death?
Royal Bank of Scotland's preferred channel is online form. Use their official online form, linked on this page. Or call 0800 161 5904.
What documents does Royal Bank of Scotland need?
Death certificate, scan; ID for the executor or person notifying
How long does Royal Bank of Scotland take to respond?
Response times vary; the official Royal Bank of Scotland 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.
