In these cases, simply visit the bank with a valid ID and a certified copy of the death certificate. You will then have access to the account, allowing you to withdraw the funds as needed.
Executor accounts An Executor account allows the estate's executors or administrators to gather all the deceased's finances in one place. Only the estate's executors or administrators can open an Executor account – they'll need to book an appointment all together at one of our branches.
Rule: (a) Upon the death of an accountholder, the FDIC will insure the deceased owner's accounts as if he or she were still alive for six months after his or her death.
Visit Banks in Their Area You will need to provide documentation to prove both that the account holder died and you have the legal authority (as a designated beneficiary, joint account holder or executor/administrator) to access the account.
Who can access and close the deceased's bank account? The executor named in the will can do this, or if no executor has been nominated, the administrator (main beneficiary). They'll contact the bank in question with proof of death to begin the process. The Death Certificate is typically accepted as proof.
How to open an estate account Step 1: Begin the probate process. The steps for beginning this process depend on the state in which the deceased person resided. Step 2: Obtain a tax ID number for the estate account. Step 3: Bring all required documents to the bank. Step 4: Open the estate account.