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How can I obtain a "Power of Authority" in order to close my deceased sister's small bank account in NY?
Anonymous2 views3 answers
I am her beneficiary and had the Power of Attorney, her will, and Death Certificate with me with all IDs, but because she didn't have a beneficiary listed on her account, I was told to get a "Power of Authority".
As my colleagues have noted, a Power of Attorney will not be possible. Even if your sister had given one to you before she passed, your authority to exercise the duties contained in the POA will have ended when your sister passed.
I realize the amount of the balance is relatively small compared to the expense of hiring an attorney to go through the Court process, but.....a Court order of some type will be necessary.
It sounds like you will probably have to open probate administration in the county where your sister resided. If she lived in NY, you should contact an attorney in NY for the appropriate avenue.
First, I am sorry for your loss. A Power of Attorney is definitely not your answer because they are only valid until the grantor passes away. Was your sister a resident of New York of Florida? The process you will need depends on the value of the bank account. I suggest you contact an attorney in whichever state she resided when she passed to discuss the details.
