Can I access my fathers bank account after 7 years?

Sleeper341

Hi, my father died 7 years ago with no will. I assumed he had nothing to leave in one anyway (he was a bit of a recluse). I recently discovered details of a bank account in his name which might have some money in it. Am I able to access this account to see if there is anything in it, and if so can I claim any money that might be there? I am an only child and my mother passed away over 10 years ago.

Thanks

wwl

Go to the bank with whatever evidence you have ( in person, not by phone), plus death cert etc. They should at least be able to find out if the account exists, though they may need to go back to archive storage if the account has been marked as dormant. Banks will typically release funds without probate - I don't know if the situation is the same for intestate accounts.

konark

Yes, you'd better take your father's death certificate and your birth certificate just so they know how you're related.

Sleeper341

So it's that easy? I can just go in with my proof of ID (birth certificate, he is named in it), his death certificate, and they'll give me his money?

wwl

Sleeper341 wrote: »

So it's that easy? I can just go in with my proof of ID (birth certificate, he is named in it), his death certificate, and they'll give me his money?

Maybe, maybe not, but the bank is the first plac to go to see if it still exists and what hoops may need jumping through.
They will have procedures to deal with this sort of thing, and thay may just refer you to the bereavement dept. At the very least they'll ask you to sign an indemnity to cover them if it turns out you're not entitled.

Sleeper341

No problem, I thought that sounded a little simple. I'll go in and speak to someone about it. Thanks for the help.