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.
If you're the executor for your recently deceased spouse, you may think you don't need an estate account, especially if you have joint accounts. But it may still be a good idea, since it makes it easier to keep the estate's funds and your own funds separate.
Any bank can handle an estate account. It isn't exactly rocket science, the main difference being the signer on the account was court-approved. Pick your favorite bank and go there.
Probate is required if: the estate includes real property (land, house, condominium, mineral rights) of any value, and/or. the estate has assets (other than land, and not including cars) whose net worth is more than $100,000.
Property that is held in a revocable trust will avoid probate. However, it is not sufficient to just have a revocable trust. The deceased person's property must be held in it when she dies. Once a person signs a revocable trust, she should immediately transfer her property to the trust.
A beneficiary letter of instruction should include the names and contact information of your beneficiaries, as well as their relationship to you. It should also specify how you would like the assets in your bank account to be distributed and any other instructions or wishes you may have.
How to access online assets Request certified copies of the death certificate. Contact the state's office or the county clerk where the person died for records. Check for access rules. Contact the company or service. Gather other files and identification. Obtain a letter of testamentary.