How do I close a bank account after someone dies?
Notify the bank of the death and provide the death certificate; the account is frozen (though some direct debits like funeral costs may be paid). For larger balances the bank will usually require the grant of probate before releasing funds; smaller balances are often released on the death certificate and an indemnity. Many banks use the Death Notification Service to notify several at once.
Detailed explanation
Each bank sets its own threshold for when it needs probate.
- Tell the bank and send a certified copy of the death certificate.
- The account is frozen; sole-name funds are held for the estate.
- Small balances may be paid out without probate; larger ones need the grant.
- Joint accounts usually pass to the surviving holder automatically.
An executor notifies three banks via the Death Notification Service. Two release modest balances on the death certificate; the third, holding £45,000, asks for the grant of probate before paying the money into the estate account.
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Sources
- GOV.UK — What to do when someone dies: step by step
- GOV.UK — Applying for probate
- Citizens Advice — Dealing with the estate of someone who has died
- Reviewed by
- ClearLegacy editorial team
- Last reviewed
- June 2026
- Next review
- December 2026
- Jurisdiction
- England & Wales
Frequently asked questions
How do I close a bank account after someone dies?
Notify the bank and provide the death certificate. The account is frozen. For larger balances the bank requires the grant of probate before releasing funds; smaller balances are often released without it. Joint accounts pass to the survivor.
Do you need probate to close a bank account?
It depends on the balance. Each bank sets its own threshold — small balances are often released on the death certificate and an indemnity, while larger amounts require a grant of probate.
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