How to notify Scottish Widows of a death
Last reviewed May 2026
Contact the Scottish Widows bereavement team
0345 601 4179Tap 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, certified
- Plan or policy number
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 Scottish Widows bereavement page
Don't cancel any payments before you notify them. Some pensions and policies pay out or continue to a partner, and stopping payments early can affect what's due.
What usually happens next
- Scottish Widows will stop regular payments and check whether anything is owed to a spouse, partner, dependant or nominated beneficiary.
- Any payment made after the date of death may need to be repaid from the estate.
- Lump sums paid to a nominated beneficiary often sit outside the estate, so they may not count towards probate.
Common questions about Scottish Widows
How do I notify Scottish Widows of a death?
Scottish Widows's preferred channel is online form. Use their official online form, linked on this page. Or call 0345 601 4179.
What documents does Scottish Widows need?
Death certificate, certified; Plan or policy number
How long does Scottish Widows take to respond?
Response times vary; the official Scottish Widows 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.
