Guide · Money and accounts
Close bank accounts after a death
How to close a deceased person's checking, savings, and CDs. Joint, sole, and payable-on-death accounts handled differently.
Joint accounts pass to the surviving owner with a death certificate. Payable-on-death accounts release directly to the named beneficiary, also with just a death certificate. Sole-name accounts require letters testamentary from probate, or a small estate affidavit if the balance is under the state threshold.
Step by step
Identify the account type
Joint with right of survivorship, payable on death, or sole. Each has a different path.
Joint accounts
The surviving owner brings a certified death certificate and ID. The bank removes the deceased and updates the title, usually the same visit.
Payable on death
The named beneficiary brings a death certificate and ID. Funds release directly, outside of probate, often within a few business days.
Sole accounts
Bring letters testamentary or a small estate affidavit. The bank closes the account and issues a check to the estate, not to you personally.
Move funds to the estate account
Deposit any sole-account funds into the estate bank account. Never commingle estate funds with your personal account, even temporarily.
Common questions
What about the deceased's debit card?
Cut it up. Charges after death can become personal liability if you authorize them. Use the estate checkbook instead.
Can I just keep using the joint account?
Legally yes if you are a joint owner, but tell the bank about the death within a few weeks. Direct deposits to the deceased must be returned.