What documents does a bank need to transfer a deceased person's account to a beneficiary?
Question Details: I am the beneficiary on my mother's bank accounts. 2 of the banks accepted the death certificate and transferred the account ownership to me, but a third bank is asking for a short certificate AND a letter from a lawyer stating that I am the rightful recipient. I believe they are being overly zealous in protecting themselves. The whole reason my mother named me as the beneficiary on her bank accounts is so I would avoid having to probate the will, which I have, but see no reason to use. There is no property other than the 3 bank accounts. The amount in question is under 40K.
Each bank is free to make its own rules as to what it will accept as proof to close out the bank account upon your Mother's death. There is so much fraud out there, and it sounds like the bank wants to cover its downside. I think if you do hire lawyer, as they have recommended to you, this will probably resolve quickly. It sounds like the bank simply wants a layer of assurance between it and you. It sounds straight-forward from the facts you present and should not take a lot of time to resolve. I am happy to assist you.
