FURTHER EXPLANATION · 2 MIN READ
Request direct payment from the bank
The explanation dated 26 August 2026 describes a possibility to pay certain priority funeral costs while the accounts are blocked. The bank requests proof documents and may require additional information. Contact the service handling the death for this matter.
Keep practical follow-up organised
Gather the invoices received in one folder. For each invoice, note who the sender is, the amount requested and with whom you have already been in contact. Also keep the responses. This prevents different family members from handling the same question separately or losing sight of what is still outstanding.
Agree within the family who will keep the overview. This can be a practical task without that person necessarily making all other decisions. You can jointly create a list of questions for the bank and questions for the notary office.
Paying and accepting are different questions
Other actions can constitute tacit acceptance of the estate. Therefore, if in doubt, have any intended step reviewed beforehand. The possibility to have a funeral invoice paid is not permission to freely manage all goods of the deceased.
Example: a family member is following up on the funeral invoice and is simultaneously asked what to do with the car. Present that second question separately to the office. You do not need to decide both matters in the same phone call with the bank.
A first appointment can begin small
Bring what you already have and indicate which questions are urgent. Notariaat Wellens helps you discuss the settlement step by step. After the meeting, note who provides which information so that the next appointment can build on a clear overview.