The Bank Is Asking for Probate. What Do You Do Next? – RMS Estates Law

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The Bank Is Asking for Probate. What Do You Do Next?

Raluca M. Soica
September 27, 2026

After a family member’s death, you may contact their bank expecting to begin settling their affairs, only to learn that a probate certificate is required before funds can be released. This can leave you wondering how to move forward, particularly when expenses are accumulating and family members are looking to you for answers.

In Ontario, probate is a court process that confirms an estate trustee’s authority and, where there is a will, its validity. Although you may be named as executor in the will, a financial institution may still require a Certificate of Appointment of Estate Trustee before allowing you to deal with certain assets.

Whether probate is necessary depends on the assets, how they were owned, and the requirements of the institutions involved. A useful starting point is to ask the bank to confirm its requirements in writing, then gather the will, proof of death, available financial statements, and information about any property or outstanding debts.

If expenses need attention while the application is being prepared, ask whether the bank can pay particular invoices, such as funeral expenses, directly from the deceased’s account. Before paying substantial expenses personally, it is sensible to clarify the estate’s financial position and how reimbursement would be handled.

You do not need to have every document or answer before seeking help. Understanding which steps are necessary, and in what order, can make probate and estate administration in Ontario more manageable during an already difficult time.

Contact RMS Estates Law to discuss the estate and what needs to happen next.

PLEASE NOTE: The content of this blog is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Reading this material does not create a solicitor-client relationship. Estate administration is fact-specific and may require advice from a qualified estates lawyer. This information has been prepared in accordance with the laws currently applicable in Ontario and may not reflect future legal developments.

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