The Death Notification Service

A clear guide to using the free Death Notification Service to inform banks and financial institutions of a death—all at once.

Mark

Mark

Probate Advisor

26/05/2025

The Death Notification Service

The Death Notification Service

Dealing with finances after a loss is one task too many—let’s make it simpler. The Death Notification Service is a free tool that lets you tell multiple banks and financial institutions about a death in one go. It’s not easy, but you’re not alone—we’ll guide you through it, step by step.

Step 1: Visit the Website

Head to www.deathnotificationservice.co.uk. That’s where it all starts. It’s designed to save you the hassle of contacting each place separately, and it’s straightforward to use.

Step 2: Gather the Details

You’ll need some key information: their full name, date of birth, date of death, and last address. Have a copy of the death certificate ready too—it’s what they’ll need to process things. Take it steady; we’ve got your back if it feels overwhelming.

  • Required: Full name, date of birth, date of death, address, death certificate

Step 3: Pick the Institutions

The service lists participating organisations—big names like Barclays, HSBC, Lloyds, Nationwide, and Santander as of March 2025. It covers current accounts, savings, mortgages, and even some credit cards or pensions. Tick the ones you need to notify. The list grows, so check the website for the latest.

Step 4: Submit and Wait

Once you’ve filled it in, hit submit. The service sends the details to your chosen institutions. They’ll update their records and get back to you within 10 days with what’s next—whether that’s closing accounts or sorting funds. It’s one less thing for you to chase.

Tip: Keep a note of who you’ve notified—some smaller accounts might not be covered yet.

Step 5: Understand the Difference

This is like Tell Us Once for money matters—it cuts down the repetition. But while Tell Us Once handles government departments, this sticks to financial institutions. Together, they lighten the load, bit by bit.

Extra Support

Need more? The Death Notification Service website has the full rundown and latest list of participants. If it’s all piling up, reach out—we’ll help you through it like pros.


You’re doing brilliantly—on to the next step with us by your side.