Law & finances
The block always comes as a surprise. There are useful exceptions, though.
As soon as it learns of the death, the bank blocks the accounts. The law provides for this and it protects the heirs — but it creates an immediate difficulty when bills arrive.
Here is what is blocked, what is not, and how to regain access.
Withdrawals, transfers and the deceased person's cards. Standing orders and direct debits are generally suspended, which can cause a rent or premium payment to fail.
The block also applies to the spouse until the certificate of inheritance is produced.
Most Swiss banks pay the funeral invoice directly from the deceased person's account on presentation of the invoice and the death certificate. You simply have to ask.
Some also agree to settle bills clearly connected with the estate, such as medical costs from the final stay. That depends on the institution.
Ask explicitly whether the funeral invoice can be paid from the account, and flag the standing orders that must not be interrupted — rent, health insurance. Many families advance several thousand francs simply because they did not ask.
A joint account with a solidarity clause generally remains usable by the survivor. That is one reason such accounts are often recommended to couples.
Note, though: the deceased person's share still forms part of the estate. Free use does not mean half of it is automatically yours.
You need the certificate of inheritance, issued by the succession authority or the notary depending on the canton. Reckon on several weeks.
With that document the bank releases the accounts to the community of heirs. Until the estate is divided, the heirs decide together.
Questions & answers
Until the certificate of inheritance is produced, usually several weeks. The exceptions above work during that period.
Technically possible while the bank is unaware, but legally risky: the funds belong to the estate. We advise against it.
It is blocked too. Opening it generally happens in the presence of the authority, with an inventory.
The heirs, with the death certificate. The bank is not notified automatically by the civil registry.