An executor account is a dedicated bank account that lets the executor(s) of an estate collect and manage funds that belong to the deceased. This includes money from selling a house or other assets before it's distributed to the heirs.

While you dont have to open an executor account to manage the deceased's estate, it can simplify things it helps keep all estate-related finances in one place, making it easier to track and handle.

How to open an Executor Account

• Start with an everyday bank account, you can do this online.  To apply, you need to be 18+ and a UK resident.
• Complete the following forms. Once the account is open you'll need to fill out an Executor(s)/Administrator(s) Account mandate form online. If there are other administrators, they need to be added to the account using an add a new party to an executor account form.
• Visit a local branch, take the completed forms, the deceased’s will, death certificate and the Grant of Representation (England or Wales) or Certificate of Confirmation (Scotland) to your local branch.
•  If you don't have a Grant of Representation or Certificate of Confirmation, you can still open the account but with limited capabilities. You can only pay the final invoice and receive payments. 

Yes, if there are enough funds available, we can help cover the final funeral costs from the deceased's sole account(s).

To proceed with paying the funeral bill using the account's funds you'll need the original funeral bill, the death certificate, and proof that you're the next of kin or appointed representative.

We'll be able to pay for the final funeral bill from the deaceased's account. Please note that we can only cover the final bill, not any estimated or provisional bills.

If the deceased had a joint account, we'll transfer it to the name of the other person once we've seen the death certificate and completed a review of any joint facilities.

If our customer had joint accounts and the remaining customer is registered for text alerts, they may receive a text message advising of a change of address a few days after notifying us. This is because we're updating our records and there's nothing you need to do if this happens. 

You can find more information on dealing with a deceased person's money and property, including help with inheritance tax, on nidirect.gov.uk page.

You will require photo ID and proof of address, such as a utility bill or bank statement. You will also need the death certificate.

Check the full list of required documentation mentioned earlier on this page.

We want to support you through this time. If you are already a customer our service Banking My Way lets you record information about the support or adjustments you need to make banking easier. You can let us know of any additional support you may need to ensure all our colleagues are aware of this.

The information will be shared on our internal systems so you won't have to repeat these requirements every time you interact with us.

You can find out more about the service and how to register via the Banking My Way information pages on our website.

We offer guidance and support for handling bereavement within your business . Visit our business bereavement page for more information.