Loss of a loved one
Losing a loved one can be a difficult time so it’s important to focus on you and your family.
Before you notify us
We know this is a difficult time, and a difficult conversation. Being prepared will help. Here’s what you need to know and what to have with you.
Choose how to notify us
You might prefer to talk to us in a branch or over the phone. We are here to support you.
Step by step guide
When you’re dealing with a bereavement, we know you can feel pretty overwhelmed. Here’s a step-by-step process to make things as straightforward as possible.
Helpful checklists and resources
Knowing who to notify and understanding the different legal terms can be confusing. These handy checklists and frequently asked questions may help.
Notify us of the loss of a loved one
How the banking and wealth products of bereaved customers are affected after the notification of a bereavement
A Glossary of terms for the bereaved
Need help with teminology? We have a glossary of terms which can help you make sense of the jargon.
End-of-life planning
Discussions about death can be difficult, but planning early could help to ease the bereavement experience for your loved ones and make it simpler them to enact your final wishes when the time comes.
Elder financial abuse
Financial abuse can happen to anyone, particularly to those who are dependent on others. Understanding the signs can help prevent or mitigate potential abuse.
Deceased Estate FAQs
If there is no Will, the next of kin will need to act on behalf of the Estate or an Administrator will need to be appointed by the Supreme Court in the state or territory where the assets are held. Please contact your local branch with the Death Certificate, and explain to them that a Will has not been located. Refer to Step 2: Locating the Will.
It is highly possible that payments will need to be made to the deceased’s accounts in the months following their passing. Examples of these payments are Superannuation benefits, shares, tax refunds, lost super cheques in the Estate of deceased person’s name and so on. If an account is closed and then needs to be re-opened in the name of the deceased, this can be a complex, lengthy and time consuming process. Keeping accounts open ensures that funds can be easily accepted into the Estate.
No, all Power of Attorneys, Guardianships and authorised signatories cease once a person is deceased. Only the next of kin, or Executor/Administrator/Legal representative will be able to engage with the bank regarding the deceased’s accounts after their passing.
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Tools and resources
We hope you find this information relating to the management of a Deceased Estate helpful, however if you wish to contact us please see the information below and contact number for our specialised Estate Management team. We are here to help you through your bereavement.
Download Loss a Loved One Support guide (PDF 366KB) - A comprehensive 30 page guide supporting you after the loss of a loved one.
Download Estate Planning guide (PDF 316KB) - A document to be completed for the purpose of enabling lawyers (Provider) to provide advice and assistance in preparing a will, Powers of Attorney and other estate planning documents.
Other sites
If you are a customer of St.George, BankSA or Bank of Melbourne and experiencing bereavement please go to:
https://www.stgeorge.com.au/deceased-estates
https://www.banksa.com.au/deceased-estates
https://www.bankofmelbourne.com.au/deceased-estates
Visit ASIC’s MoneySmart Paying for Funerals – Provides money tips for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.