Financial and emotional support

Funeral costs

If there isn’t enough money in the deceased’s account to cover the funeral cost, help might be available from the government – find out if you’re eligible.

Inheritance Tax

Depending on the value of the estate and who it is left to, Inheritance Tax might need to be paid. There are certain exemptions for money and assets passing to a spouse, civil partner or charity.

To find out about Government support, and options for paying inheritance tax, please visit GovUK

Executor accounts

An Executor’s account enables the estate's executors to gather all the finances from the deceased in one place.

If you’d like to open a Barclays executor account, please book an appointment at one of our branches – you’ll need to take proof of your ID, such as a passport or driving licence, and proof of your address.

If you’d like to speak to someone about an existing Executor’s account, please contact us on 0800 068 2238 (option 6).

What to do when money is owed

We may ask our bereavement partner, Philips & Cohen, to add the debt to the deceased’s estate. Phillips & Cohen is the UK’s only dedicated deceased account management business, offering support and guidance to help resolve outstanding accounts.

Only the estate is responsible for paying the debt – if there’s no money available, the executor or administrator won’t be asked to cover what’s owed by the person who passed away. If you have any questions about this please don't hesistate to call 0800 152 2888 to speak to a dedicated advisor from our Customer Services Team.

Useful links for further information and guidance

Age UK provides information and advice for people over 50 on 020 7278 1114.

Bereavement Advice Centre supports and advises people on what they need to do after a death – call free on 0800 634 9494.

Citizens Advice offers free, independent, confidential and impartial advice on your rights and responsibilities.

Cruse Bereavement Care has a free helpline for coping with grief – call 0808 808 1677.

Money Advice Service gives free advice on managing your money on 0800 138 7777.

Money management is our guide to helping you make informed decisions about your finances.

Samaritans provides confidential, non-judgemental support all day, every day, on 116 123.

Co-op Legal Services offers free resources and tools to help you understand probate and estate planning. You can also get a free quote for probate services – call 0330 041 7819.