What Happens to Your Foreign Bank Account Account When You Die
Quick Facts
Type
Foreign bank account
FBAR
Required for $10,000+ aggregate
Process
Varies by country
Step-by-Step Guide
Inventory all foreign bank accounts
List every foreign bank account held by the deceased, including country, bank name, account number, and approximate balance. This is essential for FBAR filing and estate administration.
Determine FBAR filing obligation
If the deceased was a US person and the aggregate value of all foreign accounts exceeded $10,000 at any point during the year, FinCEN Form 114 must be filed by April 15 (automatic extension to October 15).
Contact each foreign bank
Notify each foreign bank of the death with a death certificate (apostilled or translated as required). Each country has different probate and estate requirements.
Engage local legal counsel
For each country where accounts are held, consult a local estate attorney to understand probate requirements, forced heirship laws, and tax obligations.
Document Now Checklist
- Bank name, country, and account numbers
- Approximate balances in local currency and USD
- FBAR filing history
- Local attorney contact for each country
Last verified: June 2026. Platform policies may change. Verify current procedures directly with Foreign Bank Account. 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.
Protect your Foreign Bank Account account — and all your others
Document your digital life in a zero-knowledge encrypted vault. 1,800+ platform guides. Dead Man's Switch. Everything your family needs.
Start your free trial →