Bank Accounts, Pensions and Insurance

The deceased’s bank account and assets would usually be frozen unless the bank account is registered as a joint account. A funeral invoice can still be paid through a frozen bank account if there are adequate funds. If you require the bank to do this, you must notify them and produce a certified copy of the Death Certificate as soon as possible.

Private pension schemes, insurance companies or trade unions may pay a sum on notification of the death, if your loved one was registered with any of these.

If the deceased had instructed a solicitor with regards to a will, you must contact the solicitor as soon as possible. If the deceased has made a will without contacting a solicitor, or a will cannot be found, or a solicitor is not involved, you may need to seek advice and apply for probate.

If you are unsure DO NOTHING until you have received advice.