Losing a spouse is one of life’s most painful experiences, and facing the practical realities—especially managing finances—can quickly feel overwhelming during such a difficult time. One of the biggest questions many face is how to claim bank account(s) of deceased spouse while adjusting to life on a single income.

This guide is here to walk you through the process step-by-step, making it easier to understand what to expect and how to protect your financial future after such a difficult loss.

 

What Happens to Bank Accounts When Your Spouse Passes Away?

It’s important to know that a deceased person’s bank accounts don’t just vanish. But accessing those funds depends on the type of account and your legal relationship to the deceased. 

Here’s a quick overview of who can claim inherited money and how:

  • Joint Account Holders with Survivorship Rights: If you shared a joint account that has survivorship rights, the money automatically belongs to the surviving owner.

  • Named Beneficiaries on Payable-on-Death (POD) or Transferable-on-Death (TOD) Accounts: These accounts bypass probate and go directly to whoever is named as beneficiary.

  • Executors or Administrators: If the account is individual with no beneficiaries, the estate may go through probate. Regardless, a court-appointed executor or administrator handles the funds.

 

Immediate Steps to Take After Your Spouse’s Passing

Here’s what you should do right away to protect the estate and start the process of claiming bank accounts:

1. Get Organized

The first days and weeks after your spouse’s passing can feel like chaos. You may be grieving, overwhelmed, and unsure where to start. While there’s no perfect order to tackle everything, getting organized early and utilizing assistance can help you regain a sense of control. Having these in one place will save you time and stress when dealing with financial institutions, government agencies, and attorneys. Start compiling key documents such as:

  • The will or trust

  • Marriage certificate

  • Social Security number

  • Life insurance policies

  • Titles and deeds

  • Power of attorney or court-issued documentation proving your legal authority (if available)

 

2. Prioritize Accessible Funds

If you’re unsure whether you have access to household funds, check your current accounts and identify which ones are solely in your name or jointly held. Ideally, make sure you have cash or funds in an account you can access without restriction. Some widows have found that accessing funds before officially notifying the bank gave them critical breathing room in those early months.

Note: Once you notify a bank of a death, they may freeze individual (non-joint) accounts immediately, even if you still need access to those funds. If you’re not listed on the account, you likely won’t be able to use those funds until legal authority is established.

 

3. Order Certified Death Certificates

You’ll need several certified copies of the death certificate to manage accounts, file claims, and update records. You can usually request these from the funeral home or directly from your state’s vital records office. Order extra—you may need more than you think.

 

4. Notify the Bank (When You’re Ready)

Once you’ve ensured you have access to funds and gathered the necessary documents, then reach out to your bank. Be prepared for the bank to place a hold on individual accounts. If the account was joint, you may be able to continue using it. 

Some widows choose to keep joint accounts open for a year or more—for example, to deposit tax refunds or other checks issued in their spouse’s name.

 

5. Request a Case Reference Number

When you speak with the bank, ask for a case or claim reference number. This makes it easier to follow up with customer service and keep your records organized throughout the estate settlement process.

 

What Documents Will You Need to Claim a Deceased Person’s Bank Account?

Banks are strict about documentation to protect against fraud. Here’s what you’ll typically need:

  • Certified death certificate (original or notarized copy)

  • Valid photo ID (driver’s license, state ID, or passport)

  • Letters testamentary or letters of administration from probate court (for individual accounts without beneficiaries)

  • Copy of the will or trust (if applicable)

  • Completed bank claim forms specific to the financial institution

  • Proof of beneficiary designation or joint ownership

 

Different Types of Accounts & What to Expect

Understanding the type of account your spouse held can help you know what to prepare for and how long the process might take. In many cases, how the account was titled before death can significantly affect how smoothly things go. If you’re reading this during the planning stage or supporting someone else, know that proper titling—like joint ownership or naming a beneficiary—can make a world of difference later.

Understanding the account type can help you know how long the process might take and what to prepare for:

 

  1. Joint Accounts with Right of Survivorship

  • Funds transfer immediately to the surviving owner

  • No probate required

  • Simply present the death certificate and your ID to update the account

 

  1. Payable-on-Death (POD) and Transferable-on-Death (TOD) Accounts

  • Bypass probate and transfer directly to named beneficiaries

  • Beneficiary needs to provide death certificate, ID, and fill out claim forms

  • Bank usually closes the account after payout

 

  1. Individual Accounts Without Beneficiaries

  • May go through probate court, which can take 6-12 months or longer

  • Accounts are frozen until legal authority is granted

  • Executor must provide court documents to access funds

  • Estate debts paid before distributing remaining money

 

How Long Does It Take?

  • Quick access (1-2 weeks): For joint accounts and POD/TOD accounts with proper documents

  • Longer process (6-12 months or more): For accounts requiring probate

 

Adjusting Your Budget After a Spouse’s Death

Once you’ve claimed any inherited money, you’ll need to adjust your finances to life on a single income. 

Here are some tips to help you budget after a spouse’s death:

  • Assess your monthly expenses: List out fixed bills, debts, and variable costs

  • Prioritize essentials: Housing, utilities, food, and healthcare come first

  • Review insurance and benefits: Make sure you’re receiving any survivor benefits or life insurance payouts you’re entitled to

  • Create a new budget: Plan based on your new income level and financial goals

  • Seek help if needed: Financial advisors or counselors can provide support during this adjustment and give guidance on the titling of your own assets (bank, retirement, brokerage accounts as well as houses, vehicles, etc) to ensure the most financially strategic plan going forward. 

 

Frequently Asked Questions About Budgeting After Loss (FAQs)

How do I claim a deceased person’s bank account?
Provide the bank with a certified death certificate, your valid ID, and any necessary legal documents like letters testamentary or beneficiary forms.

Can I access the money if I’m not named on the account?
No, only joint owners, named beneficiaries, or court-appointed executors have legal access. Unauthorized withdrawals are illegal.

What if there’s no will or beneficiary named?
The estate goes through probate, and state laws determine who inherits the money.

 

Key Takeaways

  • How to claim bank account of deceased depends on the type of account and your legal relationship to the deceased.

  • Joint accounts with survivorship rights and payable-on-death (POD) or transferable-on-death (TOD) accounts provide faster access to inherited money by bypassing probate.

  • Individual accounts without beneficiaries require going through probate, which can take 6 to 12 months or longer.

  • You will need essential documents like certified death certificates, valid ID, and legal papers such as letters testamentary to claim accounts.

  • Banks freeze deceased persons’ accounts immediately to protect assets and prevent unauthorized access.

  • Proactive estate planning—like updating beneficiary designations and creating trusts—can simplify the process for your loved ones.

 

You Don’t Have to Face This Journey Alone

Explore our wide range of handpicked resources designed specifically for widows and widowers, and create a free TWC account on our personalized support platform that offers tailored tools based on your unique situation.

No matter where you are in your journey, The Widow Collaborative is here to help you regain control, connect with other widows, and move forward with confidence.