Steps to take when a loved one passes away
Knowing where to begin when handling someone else’s financial affairs can be overwhelming.
We're here to support you
We’re here to support you and help you make financial decisions during a difficult time.
While each situation is different, there are steps to take when a loved one passes away. To get started, you'll need to notify us of your loved one's passing by phone, online chat or by visiting your local financial center.
[words animate] Notify Bank of America
Phone
Online Chat
Financial Center
We’ll ask you for the person's full legal name and Social Security number to identify their accounts.
We'll determine your role
We’ll also determine your role with the estate, update your contact information and provide a case reference number.
We'll take action to protect your loved one's assets
After we’ve received notification, we'll take action to protect your loved one's assets with the bank.
[words animate] Placing balances on hold
Investment accounts
Credit card accounts
Debit/ATM Deposit accounts
Removing authorized users
That includes placing balances on hold on sole-owned accounts and closing or blocking credit card accounts, debit/ATM and removing authorized users
Then, we'll conduct a detailed review of the deceased's banking relationship to accurately assess what documents or action steps are needed to transition the accounts.
[words animate] What we'll need from you
Death certificate photocopy
Verify legal residence
Additional documents
We'll need a photocopy of the death certificate to verify the identity and legal residence of your loved one as well as confirm date of death. Depending on the type of account and state of residence, we may request additional documents for specific circ*mstances.
If the person was receiving federal benefit payments to their account, such as Social Security payments, the account is subject to a reclamation review for paid federal benefits after date of death.
These funds may be required to be returned to the issuing federal agency before any funds may be disbursed and/or deposit accounts can be closed.
We’ll communicate and work with you on what’s needed for handling our deceased client's specific banking relationship.
Based on the complexity of the case, a case manager may contact you directly.
We'll gather any documents needed
From there, we'll gather any documentation needed, make account changes and complete a funds disbursem*nt.
[words animate] Convenient ways to submit your documents
Upload online
Fax
Financial Center
You can submit documents to us in one of the following ways: Upload Online, email or fax us or bring them into any financial center.
We encourage you to contact us to discuss any specific case requirements and answer any questions throughout the transition.
[words animate] We encourage you to contact us
We're here for you when you're ready to get started.
Check out our Client Resource Guide
Check out our Client Resource Guide for additional information to consider, things to know and reference materials.
When you're ready, we're here to help
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