Do I need probate to access the bank account?

It depends on the balance. Most banks have a threshold (often around 25,000 to 50,000) below which they may release funds without probate. Above that, you will usually need to provide the grant of probate or letters of administration.

What happens to direct debits after I notify the bank?

The bank will usually freeze the account and stop all direct debits. Make a note of any essential ones (like mortgage or utility payments) so you can arrange to pay them another way if needed.

Can I notify the bank by email instead of calling?

Most banks prefer an initial phone call to their bereavement team so they can secure the account quickly. You can follow up in writing afterwards to create a paper trail.

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Financial4 min

What to Say When You Call the Bank After a Death

Calling the bank after someone dies can feel daunting, especially when you are already dealing with so much. This guide gives you a clear script so you know exactly what to say, what to ask for, and what to have ready before you call.

Last reviewed: 4 April 2026

What to have ready

✓Death certificate (or reference number if registered)
✓Deceased’s full name, date of birth, and last address
✓Your own photo ID and proof of your relationship or executor status
✓A pen - you will be given a reference number
✓Any bank statements or cards you have to hand (helpful but not essential - the bank can search by name and address)

Phone script

You can read this aloud when you call. Placeholders like [full name] are filled in automatically when you use AfterLoss.

I’m calling to report the death of an account holder. Their name is [full name], date of birth [date of birth]. They passed away on [date of death]. I am the [executor/administrator] of the estate.

What to ask for

–Freeze the account to prevent any further transactions
–A current balance statement for the account as at the date of death
–A full list of all accounts held with the bank (savings, ISAs, credit cards)
–A list of all standing orders and direct debits on the account
–Whether there is an overdraft or other debt on the account
–What the bank’s probate threshold is - some banks release funds under £15,000–£50,000 without a Grant of Probate
–Whether funds can be released now for funeral expenses (on presentation of the invoice)
–A bereavement reference number for all future correspondence
–Written confirmation of today’s call and all actions taken

Watch out

If the deceased had a credit card with the same bank, mention it on the same call - it is usually handled by the same bereavement team. Once a sole account is frozen, all standing orders and direct debits stop immediately, so you will need to notify those organisations separately.

Email template

Subject: Notification of death - [full name]

Dear Bereavement Team, I am writing to formally notify you of the death of [full name], of [their address], who passed away on [date of death]. Their date of birth was [date of birth]. I am the [executor/administrator] of the estate and am responsible for managing all outstanding accounts and financial matters. I would be grateful if you could confirm: 1. The current balance of all accounts held in the deceased’s name as at the date of death 2. Details of any standing orders, direct debits, or linked accounts 3. Whether there are any debts, overdrafts, or credit cards held with you 4. What documents you require from me to proceed with settling the account My bereavement reference number is: [Enter reference number from your phone call] Please address all further correspondence to me at the address below. Yours faithfully, [your name] [executor/administrator] of the Estate of [full name] [your address] [your email] [your phone number]

This email is a follow-up to the phone call, not a replacement for it. The phone call secures the account; the email creates a formal record.

Template letter

You can copy this letter and print it, or use the email version above.

[your name]

[your address]

[your phone number]

[your email]

[Organisation name]

[Organisation address]

[today's date]

Re: Notification of death - [full name]

Get personalised scripts with your details filled in

AfterLoss replaces every placeholder with your real information, tracks which organisations you've contacted, and guides you through all 50+ tasks after a bereavement.

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Frequently asked questions

For more detail, see our full guide: Read guide →

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