Closing a deceased person's bank account
As soon as the bank is notified, personal accounts are frozen. This guide covers notifying the bank, releasing funeral costs, and finalising closure country by country.
Notify the bank and freeze accounts
Send a registered letter with a certified copy of the death certificate. Personal accounts, cards and powers of attorney are frozen immediately. A joint account stays operational for the surviving co-holder. Essential direct debits (rent, utilities) may continue briefly on written request.
Release funeral costs (€5,000)
In France, the bank may pay up to €5,000 directly to the funeral director (art. L312-1-4 CMF). In Belgium, up to half the balance, capped at €5,000, can be released. In Luxembourg, an advance is possible against a quote. In Switzerland, each bank sets its own practice, usually against invoice. The Wegbegleiter app (wegbegleiterapp.com) lists the required documents.
Notary and proof of inheritance
For final closure the bank requires an act of notoriety (F/B/L) or certificate of heirship (CH). Without it, no withdrawals beyond the funeral advance are possible.
Final closure and distribution
The bank issues a statement as of the date of death (needed for the inheritance return) and transfers the balance to an estate account or directly to heirs. Safety deposit boxes may only be opened in the presence of the notary or all heirs.
Frequently asked questions
- Is a joint account frozen?
- No, it remains active for the surviving co-holder.
- Who notifies the bank?
- Family or notary, by registered letter with death certificate.
- How long does closure take?
- Usually 3–6 months after the act of notoriety is provided.
- Is there a funeral advance?
- Yes, up to €5,000 against the funeral director's invoice.
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.