Legal Question in Wills and Trusts in Connecticut
Bank Account
My husband died two weeks ago. He did not have a Will. He has a bank account but my name is not on the account. Can I have the account changed to my name by providing his
death certificate and marriage certificate?
2 Answers from Attorneys
Re: Bank Account
The marriage certificate is not relevant.
You can only have the account changed to your name with a death certificate if it's the type of account that has a beneficiary on it and the beneficiary is you.
Re: Bank Account
Attorney Subbloie is correct, if and only if, you were a named beneficiary on the account can you have the account changed over to your name.
Whether he had interests in any other accounts or real estate as well, or just the one bank account, you will need to open an estate with the probate court. This is to ensure all his assets are transferred correctly, and all taxes, if any, are properly paid for. Most probate courts will be extremely helpful if you call the clerk and explain the situation. Of course you could always contact an attorney to discuss the situation further.
Feel free to contact me anytime to discuss further. This answer is not meant to, and does not, create an attorney-client relationship between the poster and Karlson, Kasper & Parasco LLC. All information contained in this answer is for general knowledge only. If you are in need of specific legal help you should contact an attorney.