Call the number on the back of the bank card or statement.
Have ready:
Account numbers
Your loved one’s Social Security number
Death certificate — you may need to bring this in person
Your photo ID
Proof of your relationship or executor status
Banks handle death notifications differently. Some freeze accounts immediately. Others allow a surviving spouse continued access to joint accounts. If you are not a joint account holder or named beneficiary you may need probate documents before accessing funds. Do not attempt to withdraw funds before notifying the bank. If your loved one had automatic bill payments coming from this account notify the bank so you can manage those transitions.
You don’t need to follow this word for word. It’s a guide — not a performance.
If surviving spouse on joint account say: “I am a joint account holder. I’d like to understand what I need to do to remove my spouse’s name and continue managing the account.”
If executor but not joint holder say: “I am the named executor of the estate. I have [or will have] letters testamentary. Can you tell me what documentation you need to give me access to manage this account?”
Before hanging up always ask: “Are there any automatic payments coming out of this account I should know about?” “Is there a safe deposit box associated with this account?” “Do I need to come into a branch or can this be handled by phone?” “What is your bereavement or estate services department’s direct number?”
Date and time of call
Name of representative
Reference number
Automatic payments identified
Whether safe deposit box exists
Next steps and any branch visit needed