Money and accounts
What happens to their bank account when they die?
Short answer
Joint accounts transfer to the surviving account holder. POD accounts transfer to the named beneficiary. Accounts with no joint holder or beneficiary go through the estate — meaning probate, or California's small estate process if under $184,500 (2024 threshold).
What this usually means
Joint accounts transfer to the surviving account holder. POD accounts transfer to the named beneficiary. Accounts with no joint holder or beneficiary go through the estate — meaning probate, or California's small estate process if under $184,500 (2024 threshold).
What to do next
- Start the PathAfter checklist for situation-aware first steps.
- Find California county phone numbers for coroner, vital records, and local offices.
- Open the First 72 Hours Call Log before making calls.
- Open the Documents to Find Checklist when you are ready for paperwork.