Q: How can I get a letter of inheritance to close a bank account. I'm the only heir.
My Dad passed away earlier this month. I need to close his bank account. They are asking for a letter of inheritance I believe. I’m not sure if he had a will. The bank balance is just over 2,500.00.
A: While in theory an Affidavit of Small Estate might suffice, financial institutions generally require court-issued Letters of Administration when there is no Will. Filing an Application to Determine Heirship and Issue Letters of Administration might cost you as much or more than is in the account: consult a local probate attorney. If so, you might let the funds pass to the Texas State Comptroller and, in a couple of years, apply, submitting documents showing that you are the sole heir.
A: A lot depends on who the bank is, as some banks are much easier to work with then others. I suggest calling a probate attorney who can give you more personalized direction; sometimes, bank employees use words that aren't really applicable. Most of us offer free phone consults.
Justia Ask a Lawyer is a forum for consumers to get answers to basic legal questions. Any information sent through Justia Ask a Lawyer is not secure and is done so on a non-confidential basis only.
The use of this website to ask questions or receive answers does not create an attorney–client relationship between you and Justia, or between you and any attorney who receives your information or responds to your questions, nor is it intended to create such a relationship. Additionally, no responses on this forum constitute legal advice, which must be tailored to the specific circumstances of each case. You should not act upon information provided in Justia Ask a Lawyer without seeking professional counsel from an attorney admitted or authorized to practice in your jurisdiction. Justia assumes no responsibility to any person who relies on information contained on or received through this site and disclaims all liability in respect to such information.
Justia cannot guarantee that the information on this website (including any legal information provided by an attorney through this service) is accurate, complete, or up-to-date. While we intend to make every attempt to keep the information on this site current, the owners of and contributors to this site make no claims, promises or guarantees about the accuracy, completeness or adequacy of the information contained in or linked to from this site.
