How to Notify Google of a Death: Subscription Service Bereavement Guide 2026

How to notify Google of a death — step by step

1. Use Google's Inactive Account Manager or submit a request

   Visit Google's support page at support.google.com/accounts/troubleshooter/6357590. Google provides a process to request the closure of a deceased person's account and, in some cases, to download data from the account.

2. Identify all Google services in use

   Google services may include Gmail (email), Google Drive (files and documents), Google Photos, YouTube, Google Pay, Google One storage, and Google Play purchases. Each service's data policy is managed under the single Google account.

3. Request content from the account (if needed)

   Google may allow an authorised representative to download certain data from the account. This requires submitting a formal request with proof of death and authority. Not all content is accessible — Google will advise on what can be retrieved.

4. Close the Google account

   Closing the account removes all associated services. Before doing so, ensure any important data (documents, photos, emails) has been retrieved. Google will confirm account closure by email to the requester.

What documents does Google need?

• Death certificate
• Deceased's Gmail address
• Proof of your authority (probate or next of kin documentation)
• Your own government-issued photo ID

Have multiple certified copies of the death certificate ready. Banks and financial institutions each require an original or certified copy — you cannot usually pass a single copy between organisations. See our guide to how many death certificates you need.

How long does Google take?

Google typically takes 2–8 weeks to process a bereavement notification once all required documents have been received.

During this period, accounts or services will typically be frozen until the estate is administered. This means no new transactions can be authorised.

Google's process for deceased accounts can be lengthy. If you need to access emails urgently for estate administration, consider using the account recovery process first. Contact Google's support team directly if you encounter difficulties.

What happens after you notify Google?

Once Google receives your notification and confirms receipt, the account or service will be frozen and no new transactions will be authorised. Estate administration can then begin.

Google will confirm receipt of your notification and advise you of any next steps required to close or transfer the account or policy. Keep a record of all correspondence and reference numbers for the estate file.

What cannot wait