What is to be done with bank accounts, investment accounts, bills and credit cards after a death varies regionally. To avoid any complications, all account holders of the deceased should be notified immediately.

 

In some regions, bank accounts are automatically frozen. You should find out the procedures for releasing existing funds, and how to set up a new account for funds received after the death.  It’s recommended that a joint account stay open for at least six months to allow you to deposit any checks that are made out to the deceased.  To take a name off a joint bank account, banks require a Certified Copy of a Death Certificate.  If the deceased had a safety deposit box in a bank, the contents can be sealed after death and a Certified Copy of a Death Certificate will be required to gain access to the contents.

 

For requirements to close all other accounts, contact the account holder.