What Happens to Your Business Bank Account Account When You Die
Quick Facts
Funds
Operating capital
Automatic payments
Bills on autopay
Signers
Check authorized signers
Step-by-Step Guide
Contact the bank immediately
Call or visit the bank branch. Inform them of the situation. They will guide you through their process for deceased account holders, which typically requires a death certificate and legal documentation.
Estimated time: Day 1
Secure the account
Ask the bank to restrict the account to prevent unauthorized withdrawals while maintaining essential business operations (payroll, vendor payments).
Estimated time: Day 1
Review automatic payments
Request a list of all automatic payments, standing orders, and recurring debits. Decide which to continue and which to cancel.
Estimated time: Week 1
Add an authorized signer
Work with the bank and an attorney to add the estate executor or a trusted person as an authorized signer. This requires legal documentation.
Estimated time: Week 1-2
Export all statements
Download or request copies of all bank statements. These are essential for the estate settlement and final tax return.
Estimated time: Week 1
Document Now Checklist
- Bank name and branch
- Account number(s)
- Online banking login credentials
- Authorized signers on the account
- Approximate balance
- Debit cards linked to the account
- Automatic payment list
Last verified: June 2026. Platform policies may change. Verify current procedures directly with Business Bank Account. This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.
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