Farra is a death administration assistant for UK families. Get step-by-step guidance for registering a death, applying for probate, notifying banks, and managing bereavement admin. From essential documents to practical checklists, Farra simplifies estate paperwork and funeral-related tasks so you can focus on what matters.
Most banks will release funds from the deceased's account to pay funeral expenses before probate, typically up to £5,000, directly to the funeral director. You'll need the death certificate, funeral invoice, and ID. Government support is also available: Funeral Expenses Payment (up to £1,000 if you receive benefits, apply within 6 months) and Bereavement Support Payment for surviving spouses/civil partners.
Accessing funds from the deceased's estate is an important part of how to arrange a funeral in the UK. Banks and building societies can release funds from the deceased's accounts to pay for funeral expenses before probate is granted. This helps families who can't afford to pay upfront.
Most banks will release funds directly to the funeral director upon receiving:
The money is paid directly to the funeral director, not to you personally.
Need to know if probate is also required?
1 in 3 applications are sent back. In 2 minutes, we'll tell you whether you need probate and what to do alongside these notifications.
Financial support is available to help with the funeral arrangement process. The government offers several forms of assistance:
Up to £1,000 if you receive certain benefits. Apply through DWP within 6 months.
Lump sum payment for surviving spouses/civil partners. Not means-tested.
Government support and benefits for funeral costs
How to contact banks to release funeral funds
Process for accessing and closing accounts
Understanding estate debts and payment priority
Accessing small estates without probate
Check if probate is required for the estate
Full probate process for larger estates
First steps after a death including funeral planning
Complete guide to planning and paying for a funeral
Money-saving options when funeral costs are a concern
1 in 3 probate applications are sent back — usually because executors didn't know what they didn't know.
Answer 5 questions in under 2 minutes. We'll tell you whether probate is needed for this estate and, if so, exactly what to do — so nothing gets missed.
Free to check · 2 minutes · No account needed · £179 for your full probate pack