How to Access and Withdraw Money in a Deceased Person’s Bank Account During Probate in CT | Connecticut Probate

Detailed Answer

When someone dies owning bank accounts in their sole name, the funds become part of the probate estate in Connecticut. To access and withdraw these funds, you generally follow these steps:

Identify the Value of the Estate.
Review the decedent’s assets and gather bank statements. If the total personal property value (excluding real estate) is under $100,000, you may qualify for small estate administration under Conn. Gen. Stat. § 45a-307 (link).
Petition the Probate Court.
File a petition for appointment as executor (if there is a will) or administrator (if there is no will) in the probate district where the decedent resided. See Conn. Gen. Stat. § 45a-204 (link) and § 45a-207 (link).
Obtain Letters Testamentary or Letters of Administration.
Once appointed, the court issues letters—official documents that authorize you to act on behalf of the estate. Present these letters to each bank holding the decedent’s account.
Gather Required Bank Documents.
Banks typically require:
- Original or certified copy of the death certificate.
- Letters testamentary or of administration.
- Photo identification of the personal representative.
Access and Withdraw Funds.
With the bank’s approval, you can:
- Open a trustee or estate account in the estate’s name.
- Transfer or withdraw funds to pay estate expenses, debts, taxes, and funeral costs.
- Distribute remaining funds to beneficiaries or heirs as approved by the probate court.
Close the Estate.
After debts and taxes are paid, file an account with the court, showing all fund movements. The court reviews and, upon approval, allows final distributions and closes the estate. See Conn. Gen. Stat. § 45a-304 (link).

Helpful Hints

Check for joint accounts or Payable-on-Death (POD) designations—they often bypass probate.
Obtain multiple certified death certificates; banks may require originals.
Maintain a detailed ledger of all estate transactions.
Use official probate court forms available at the Connecticut Probate Court website.
Communicate early with creditors—notice requirements can affect distribution.
Consult a probate docket or register’s office if you need to track timeline and filings.

Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For advice tailored to your situation, consult a licensed attorney in Connecticut.