This form is a sample letter in Word format covering the subject matter of the title of the form.
This form is a sample letter in Word format covering the subject matter of the title of the form.
Something that often catches a newly appointed personal representative off guard is the requirement to open and manage an estate banking account. Typically, the account is a basic checking account and is often named “Estate of Deceased's Name, Executor's Name, Executor”.
Once you've been appointed as the personal representative of a loved one's estate, you should open an estate checking account. An estate checking account serves as a temporary account to manage the estate's financial affairs.
Once you've been appointed executor or personal representative by the probate court, you'll probably want to open a bank account in the name of the estate. Usually, an account for an estate is registered in this or a similar way: "Estate of Gerald S. Smith, Deceased, Pamela S. Smith, executor."
Any bank can handle an estate account. It isn't exactly rocket science, the main difference being the signer on the account was court-approved. Pick your favorite bank and go there.
Contact the bank in advance to ensure you arrive with the appropriate documents, but you'll likely need to bring a notarized or certified copy of the death certificate and proof of your identity, such as a driver's license or passport. You'll also need the decedent's legal name and Social Security number.