Losing someone is hard enough without a pile of admin on top. This page explains, in plain steps, how to tell NatWest that someone has died, what they will ask for and what happens next. NatWest is part of NatWest Group, which also includes Royal Bank of Scotland and Ulster Bank.
At a glance
- Bereavement team: 0800 161 5903
- Online: an online bereavement form
- Death Notification Service: Member, so you can tell several banks in one go
- Grant of probate usually needed above: £50,000
- Official page: https://www.natwest.com/life-moments/bereavement.html
How to tell NatWest
You can notify NatWest by phone or using an online bereavement form. You do not need every document ready before you get in touch. Tell them first, and they will explain exactly what to send and at what pace.
If the person banked with more than one provider, the free Death Notification Service lets you tell NatWest and other members in a single submission at deathnotificationservice.co.uk. The records are updated and the team gets in touch within about ten days.
Documents you’ll usually need
- The death certificate, or an interim certificate from the coroner.
- Proof of who you are, such as a passport or driving licence.
- The account details you have for the person who died.
- The will if there is one, plus a grant of probate or letters of administration if NatWest asks for it.
What happens after you tell them
Once NatWest has what it needs, it will freeze the accounts, stop any cards and explain how the money is dealt with. NatWest usually asks for a grant of probate or letters of administration above its threshold, and can often release smaller sole balances without one. Confirm the current threshold with the bereavement team. Joint accounts usually pass to the surviving holder rather than counting towards this. Timescales vary, so ask the bereavement team what to expect for your situation.
Contact details
- Phone: 0800 161 5903
- Online: an online bereavement form
- Official bereavement page: https://www.natwest.com/life-moments/bereavement.html
Common questions
Do I need probate to close a NatWest account?
NatWest usually asks for a grant of probate or letters of administration above its threshold, and can often release smaller sole balances without one. Confirm the current threshold with the bereavement team.
Can I notify NatWest and other banks at once?
Yes. NatWest is a member of the free Death Notification Service, so you can notify it and other member banks in one submission at deathnotificationservice.co.uk.
Who can report the death?
Anyone can make the first contact. NatWest can only release money to the person entitled to deal with the estate, usually the executor named in the will or the next of kin.
You might also need
Last reviewed June 2026. Details such as phone numbers and thresholds can change, so please confirm with NatWest on its official page before you act. This is general information, not legal or financial advice.
Source: https://www.natwest.com/life-moments/bereavement.html
