Notifying Banks After a Death in the UK
Banks have bereavement processes, but each provider has its own threshold and document requirements. This guide explains the practical order.
An executor knows the person had two current accounts, a savings account and Premium Bonds, but does not know the balances. The first job is to notify providers and ask what evidence they need, not to move money.
Names, circumstances and details in this example are illustrative. LossGuide is practical information, not legal, tax, financial or medical advice.
Before contacting banks
- Find certified death certificates if available.
- Check whether accounts were sole or joint.
- Identify the executor or administrator where possible.
- Make a simple list of provider names, sort codes, account numbers and reference numbers.
What banks may do
- Freeze sole accounts once notified.
- Keep joint accounts available to the surviving account holder in many cases.
- Ask for a death certificate, ID and proof of authority depending on the amount held.
- Tell you whether probate is required for that provider.
Useful official source
- GOV.UK: Applying for probate - https://www.gov.uk/applying-for-probate
Turn this into a practical checklist
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