Can money be accessed after someone dies to pay bills?

What executors and families in Victoria need to know 

Often an early question after the death of a loved one is: “Can we access the deceased’s money to pay their bills?” 

It’s a perfectly reasonable question, there are funeral expenses to cover, ongoing household bills, or urgent payments that need to be made while the estate is being sorted out. 

The short answer is: yes, but with conditions. 

As experienced estate lawyers in Victoria, we want to help you understand what’s possible, what’s not, and how to move forward with confidence and care. 

Can you access the deceased’s bank accounts? 

Generally, bank accounts are frozen as soon as the bank becomes aware that someone has died. This applies to accounts held solely in the deceased’s name. 

However, this does not mean the money is locked away permanently. In most cases: 

• The bank will allow payment of the funeral invoice directly from the deceased’s account. 
• Certain other estate-related expenses (e.g. urgent debts) might be paid with the bank’s approval. 
• If the account is joint, the surviving joint account holder usually retains access. 

To access funds from a sole account, the executor (or next of kin if no Will exists) typically needs to provide: 

• A certified copy of the death certificate, and 
• Evidence that they are legally entitled to administer the estate (this could be a Grant of Probate or Letters of Administration if there is no Will). 

What about ongoing bills? 

Utilities, rates, insurances, mortgages, and even credit card bills don’t stop when someone passes away. If you’re the executor, it’s wise to: 

• Notify providers of the death 
• Request a pause or temporary hold on services and billing where possible 
• Keep track of any payments made from your own funds — these may be reimbursed once the estate is released 

The bank might be willing to pay some bills directly before probate is granted if you provide supporting documentation, but this is not guaranteed, and it’s essential to handle this carefully. 

Should executors pay bills out of their own pocket? 

It’s not uncommon for executors or family members to front the cost of urgent estate expenses. If you do this, keep thorough records and receipts, as you are generally entitled to be reimbursed from the estate once funds are released. 

However, before using your own money or making payments on the estate’s behalf, it’s a good idea to get legal guidance, especially if the estate is complex or if other beneficiaries are involved. 

It is important to be aware that there is no legal obligation on an executor to personally pay estate expenses prior to estate funds being released (however, sometimes it might be essential, such as paying utilities to keep those services connected while a house is listed for sale). 

Get guidance from modern estate lawyers who know how to help 

Dealing with an estate can be overwhelming and financial stress or confusion about bills only adds to the pressure. The best way to move forward is to work with experienced estate lawyers who know how to manage these matters efficiently, transparently, and with modern systems that avoid unnecessary delays. 

At OFRM Lawyers, we take the time to: 

• Quickly determine what bills can and should be paid
• Liaise with banks, insurers and service providers on your behalf 
• Guide you through probate or letters of administration as smoothly as possible 
• Help you keep clear records and protect you from personal risk as an executor

   

As executor, You choose the lawyer 

It’s worth remembering that if you’re the executor of the Will, you have the right to choose which lawyer helps you manage the estate. Even if the Will was prepared by another firm, you are under no obligation to use that firm to handle the administration. 

Choosing a lawyer who understands your role, communicates clearly, and uses efficient systems can save time, reduce stress, and ensure you’re meeting your legal obligations properly. 

Key takeaways 

• Bank accounts are generally frozen after death but can still be accessed for funeral bills; and sometimes banks will pay other estate related bills  
• Joint accounts are not frozen 
• Executors should avoid paying bills from personal funds without proper advice and should keep full records 
• Modern, efficient estate lawyers can make the process faster, clearer and far less stressful 
• Executors have the right to choose which lawyer helps manage the estate