Updated October 2026
In short: Once someone dies, their money belongs to their estate, and only the executor or administrator can deal with it. Withdrawing money using the deceased's card or online banking without authority can be theft or fraud, even by family members. Banks usually freeze accounts on notification of death, but often release funds directly for funeral costs and inheritance tax.
| Action | Usually allowed? |
|---|---|
| Bank pays the funeral director directly from the account | Yes, most banks allow this |
| Executor accesses funds after probate (or small-estate release) | Yes |
| Family member uses the deceased's card or PIN after death | No, this can be theft or fraud |
| Executor uses estate money for personal benefit | No, breach of duty and possibly a criminal offence |
| Paying estate debts in the correct order | Yes, as part of administering the estate |
Consequences
Taking money without authority can lead to criminal investigation, civil claims by beneficiaries, and removal of an executor by the court. Beneficiaries can ask for estate accounts, and executors should keep clear records of every transaction.
Executors: handling the estate properly
- Register the death and get copies of the death certificate
- Notify banks and request balances
- Value the estate, including the property
- Apply for probate
- Keep separate records and an executor's account
- Pay debts and taxes before distributing to beneficiaries
The property
The home is often the largest asset. Executors should keep it insured and secure, value it for probate, and decide with beneficiaries whether to sell or let it. Proceeds go into the estate, not to any one family member directly.
How Fraser Bond helps executors
- Probate valuations
- Securing and clearing an empty property
- Sale or letting of the estate property
- Clear reporting for beneficiaries
Executor dealing with a property?
Talk to us about valuing and selling or letting it.
Speak to our teamRelated guides
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