In most cases, yes.
To release any cash balances held as part of an estate, funds can generally only be paid into a bank account in the name of the deceased estate or to a solicitor’s trust account.
This requirement helps ensure that funds are managed in accordance with estate administration and legal obligations. Paying into an estate account provides a clear audit trail, confirms that the authorised executor or administrator is in control of the funds, and helps ensure that any outstanding estate expenses are settled before distributions are made to beneficiaries.
What should the account name look like?
The bank account should clearly reflect that it is held on behalf of the estate. For example, if the deceased was Mr John Brown, suitable account names may include:
Estate of John Brown
The Estate of Mr John Brown
Estate of the Late John Brown
Est of John Brown
What if I am using a solicitor?
If a solicitor is managing the estate, we can alternatively release funds to the solicitor’s trust account.
Do I need to provide proof of the account details?
Yes. We require a copy of a bank statement or deposit slip that clearly shows the account name and account number.
There is no need to include transaction history or balance information—only the account details are required.