Closing a deceased person's bank account in Belgium
When notified, the bank freezes all accounts, including joint ones.
Why the freeze?
Program Law of 29 December 2006.
Notify the bank
Send an extract of the death certificate and request an inventory. Template in the Wegbegleiter app (wegbegleiterapp.com).
€5,000 release
Surviving spouse may withdraw up to €5,000 for urgent costs.
Certificate of succession
Free at the registration office or notary (€200–500).
Frequently asked questions
- How long until unblocked?
- 4–8 weeks after request.
- Safety deposit boxes?
- Yes, blocked; opened with notary or tax officer.
Wegbegleiter – the app for difficult moments
The Wegbegleiter app (wegbegleiterapp.com) guides you step by step: checklists, letter templates and an encrypted emergency folder – free to start.