Before proceeding, please review the  legal disclaimer.

Introduction: How to Locate Bank Accounts of Deceased

Losing a loved one is emotionally overwhelming, and on top of that, families often face practical challenges when settling their estate. One of the most common questions people ask after a death is: how to locate bank accounts of deceased?

This question is especially relevant in Texas, where banking privacy laws intersect with probate processes. If you are managing the affairs of someone who passed away—whether you are an executor, heir, or close family member—knowing how to locate bank accounts of deceased can make a critical difference.

At The Lange Firm, based in Sugar Land and serving families across Texas, we understand how important it is to identify and gather all financial assets of the deceased. This blog will walk you through the steps, resources, and strategies to uncover hidden or forgotten bank accounts. While this guide does not offer specific legal advice, it will equip you with practical knowledge to begin the search.

How to Locate Bank Accounts of Deceased in Texas

Understanding the Importance of Locating Bank Accounts

When someone passes away, their bank accounts often hold important funds that contribute to settling their estate. Whether the accounts contain savings, direct deposits, or regular bill payments, finding these accounts ensures that all assets are properly accounted for during probate.

If the accounts go undiscovered, they could eventually become unclaimed property, making it even harder for heirs to access funds. Therefore, understanding how to locate bank accounts of deceased is not just about convenience—it’s about protecting the financial health of the estate.

Where to Start: Gathering Initial Information

Collecting Documents Left Behind

The first step in how to locate bank accounts of deceased is to gather documents from the deceased’s personal files. Look for:

• Bank statements (paper or electronic)
• Checkbooks and debit card receipts
• Tax returns (which may list interest income from accounts)
• Online banking login information (if accessible)

These clues can provide the initial roadmap to identify where the deceased held accounts.

Checking Mail and Email for Clues

Reviewing Regular Correspondence

Many people still receive periodic paper statements or notices from their bank. Checking the deceased’s recent mail can reveal active accounts. Additionally, reviewing their email inbox (if you have authorized access) may show regular communication with financial institutions.

This is often one of the fastest ways to begin how to locate bank accounts of deceased, especially for those who used online banking.

How to Locate Bank Accounts of Deceased Through Tax Records

IRS Filings and 1099-INT Forms

Bank accounts that generate interest will appear on annual tax returns. Reviewing the deceased’s past tax filings can uncover accounts that might otherwise be overlooked.

Look specifically for:

• Schedule B (Interest and Ordinary Dividends)
• 1099-INT forms issued by financial institutions

Searching for Safe Deposit Boxes

Exploring Physical Banking Connections

In addition to regular bank accounts, many people maintain safe deposit boxes. These boxes often contain documents listing other financial assets, including account details.

If you know where the deceased banked, you can inquire whether a safe deposit box exists at that institution. Executors may have the legal right to access these boxes during probate.

How to Locate Bank Accounts of Deceased with Texas Unclaimed Property Database

The Texas Comptroller’s Role

If the deceased held old accounts that were forgotten or inactive for years, those funds may have already been turned over to the Texas Comptroller’s Unclaimed Property Division.

Searching for the deceased’s name in the Texas Unclaimed Property database can reveal:

• Dormant checking or savings accounts
• Unclaimed CDs
• Forgotten retirement accounts linked to financial institutions

Utilizing Probate Court Filings

Estate Documents as a Financial Map

If the deceased had a will or went through probate before, court records may reference specific bank accounts. Probate filings are public records in Texas, meaning you can often request copies from the county probate court.

This method is particularly helpful if you’re taking over for a prior executor or if the estate is complex.

Contacting Known Financial Institutions Directly

Permission and Legal Documentation Required

If you know the deceased banked at a specific institution, you (or the estate executor) can contact the bank directly. To access account information, you’ll generally need:

• A certified death certificate
• Proof of executor or administrator status (Letters Testamentary)
• Identification proving your relationship to the deceased

Banks are legally bound to protect customer privacy, but they also follow strict protocols to assist executors during probate.

How to Locate Bank Accounts of Deceased Using Professional Services

Private Investigators and Asset Search Companies

If your search stalls, professional asset locators can help identify hidden or forgotten accounts. These services use:

• Public and proprietary financial databases
• Credit header information
• Financial institution records (when permitted)

While these services cost money, they can be invaluable for estates with missing or unclear financial records.

Searching Online Account Aggregators

Financial Technology to the Rescue

Many individuals use online tools like Mint, Personal Capital, or Quicken to track all their accounts in one place. If the deceased used any of these tools, gaining access can streamline the process of locating all linked accounts.

How to Locate Bank Accounts of Deceased When Digital Access is Limited

Password Recovery and Device Searches

If you don’t have access to banking passwords directly, you might still retrieve clues from:

• Password manager apps
• Saved logins in web browsers
• Mobile banking apps installed on phones or tablets

This digital footprint can offer vital starting points.

What to Do When You Find Bank Accounts of a Deceased Person

Proper Handling During Probate

Once you locate accounts, the next step is formally transferring the funds into the estate’s control. This process varies based on factors like:

• Whether the account was jointly held
• If a named beneficiary exists (Payable on Death account)
• Whether the account is subject to probate

Working with an experienced probate attorney, such as Evan Lange at The Lange Firm in Sugar Land, can ensure all accounts are properly handled within Texas legal requirements.

Conclusion

Navigating how to locate bank accounts of deceased is a vital step in settling a loved one’s estate. Whether you’re an executor, spouse, or close family member, identifying all assets ensures the estate is fully accounted for and distributed correctly.

While this blog offers practical steps to get started, working with a qualified probate attorney can provide added confidence and clarity throughout the process. At The Lange Firm, Evan Lange and his team assist families across Sugar Land and Texas with compassionate, experienced probate guidance.