What Happens to Your RBC Royal Bank Account When You Die
Quick Facts
Type
Canadian bank account
FBAR
Required if US person
Process
Estate documents required
Step-by-Step Guide
Contact RBC Estate Services
Call RBC Estate & Trust Services at 1-800-769-2560. Provide the death certificate, Letters of Administration or Certificate of Appointment, and government-issued ID of the executor.
Freeze accounts and inventory balances
RBC will freeze all accounts upon notification. Request a full statement of all accounts, RRSPs, TFSAs, and investment holdings as of date of death.
FBAR filing if US person
If the deceased was a US person, Canadian accounts exceeding $10,000 must be reported on FBAR (FinCEN Form 114). Consult a cross-border tax professional.
Distribute account balances
Once estate documents are approved, RBC will release funds per the will or intestacy rules. RRSP/TFSA transfers to a surviving spouse may be tax-free.
Document Now Checklist
- RBC account numbers and types
- RRSP and TFSA account details
- Approximate balances
- FBAR filing status if US person
Last verified: June 2026. Platform policies may change. Verify current procedures directly with RBC Royal Bank. This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.
Related Guides
Social Security
Social Security must be notified of death immediately. Benefits paid after death must be returned. Survivor benefits may be available.
IRS / Tax Returns
A final individual tax return must be filed for the year of death. Estates over $13.61M may owe federal estate tax.
Veterans Affairs (VA)
Veterans are entitled to burial benefits, a headstone or marker, a burial flag, and Presidential Memorial Certificate — all at no cost.
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