A week ago Friday I found out my father was dead. I've been estranged from my family since 2013.

[HeartsCanHope]

8. Update after calling the bank Monday morning.

The lovely young lady I spoke to was so kind. The bank isn't allowed to disclose who

made the "request", but she did say that they are often notified by government offices

(social security)or funeral homes. So I'll assume that's where the bank got the info.

She reassured me that most likely no one would try to claim any of the money in the

accounts, (as she said they've had a month where no one was watching, and nothing

changed in the accounts,) and after the bank gets the death certificate any claim to any

money ends. The accounts were set up as "sole survivorships", so if someone dies the

other people listed on the accounts divide the money. It is NOT transferable to their estate.

Found out how to handle the death certificate stuff, too. Set up a notary appointment

for Wednesday. Filled out forms online and after they are notarized and mailed, I'll receive

a copy of the death certificate in the mail. Cannot go in person to the local vital statics

office for the death certificate, I would have to go to the county where he died 2 hours away!

So less trouble to handle it by mail. After I receive the death certificate I can go

to my local bank and they will send the copy of the death certificate electronically to the bank

office that sent me the notice. My father's name will be removed and my husband and I will

sign new cards and the accounts are only ours again.

Thanks again, Easterncedar and Sheltielover! I really appreciate your kind replies and the

support.