We're here to help when a loved one passes away. Knowing where to begin when handling someone else's financial affairs can be overwhelming.Do you know how to find out if you are a beneficiary on a bank account? Most bank accounts can pass directly to beneficiaries, without the need for probate or the court's intervention. If you and your spouse shared the same bank account and credit cards, checks, etc. , then you may have to pay the bill. What information is needed to open an Estate Account? If you write a check from your personal account or use your own credit card, be sure to get a receipt and put it in your files. You may be able to use a Small Estate Affidavit to have the property transferred to you. Open a bank account in the name of the estate.