Bank Accounts and Financial Institutions
What if there is no money to pay bills while probate is pending?
Short answer
The executor can petition the court for a family allowance — a temporary payment from the estate to support a surviving spouse or minor children during probate. Ask a probate attorney. Also check whether any accounts had joint holders or beneficiary designations…
What this usually means
The executor can petition the court for a family allowance — a temporary payment from the estate to support a surviving spouse or minor children during probate. Ask a probate attorney. Also check whether any accounts had joint holders or beneficiary designations that are accessible now.
What to do next
- Start the PathAfter checklist for situation-aware first steps.
- Find California county help for coroner contacts, vital records, cost tools, and paperwork.
- Open the First 72 Hours Call Log before making calls.
- Open the Documents to Find Checklist when you are ready for paperwork.