Safe Deposit Box Access

Summary

In Pennsylvania, accessing a safe deposit box after a co-owners death usually requires a death certificate. If the estate is complex, probate may be necessary. Since your sister is the executrix, she may need to assist in the process. Discuss further steps with the bank and your sister.

Full Conversation

They said provide a copy of the death certificate and they'll go from there.
It seems like the bank requires a death certificate to proceed. In Pennsylvania, it's common for banks to request this document to verify the death of a co-owner. Once you provide it, they might instruct you further, possibly regarding probate if needed. Have they mentioned anything about probate or additional documents?
No they have not. My sister is the executrix of my fathers estate. Is the bank correct in denying me access. I signed for both my father and myself when i rented the safe deposit box.
In Pennsylvania, banks typically require a death certificate to verify the deceased co-owner and may also require probate proceedings if the estate needs to be settled. Since your sister is the executrix, she might need to be involved in the process. Have you discussed the situation with her?
I mentioned that i need a copy of the death certificate, which she is happy to provide. When my father was alive, he never accessed my safe deposit box. Based on that information, do you think that will suffice to allow me access to my safe deposit box?
Case Rating: *
In Pennsylvania, providing a death certificate is often a necessary step for accessing a safe deposit box with a deceased co-owner. Since your sister is the executrix, she might need to assist in any probate proceedings, especially if your father had assets that require settling. However, if the bank only requires the death certificate, that may suffice initially. I recommend discussing further steps with your sister and the bank.
Thank you!
Case Rating: *
It seems like the situation might be resolvable by providing the death certificate and discussing with the bank. Probate involvement depends on the estate's complexity, but it's not always necessary if the bank only requires the death certificate.