Freezing and release of bank accounts in Spain after a death

Following a death, Spanish banking institutions generally freeze the deceased’s bank accounts in order to secure the funds.

Freezing and release of bank accounts in Spain after a death
Banking and financial assets

Sènakpon Gbassi

June 10, 2025

Why accounts are frozen

The freezing of accounts is intended to prevent any unauthorised transactions until the heirs have been identified. The payment of ordinary expenses linked to the maintenance of a property, such as water and electricity bills, insurance premiums, condominium charges and local taxes, is permitted.

Conditions for release

The release of funds requires the production of specific succession documents demonstrating that the estate has been properly regularised.

Partial release

Depending on the circumstances, certain amounts may also be released to cover urgent expenses related to the death.

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