What happens to a PayPal account and any balance when someone dies, and the executor process to close it.
Can you plan ahead?
Nothing to set up in advance beyond recording that the account exists.
Digital assets
PayPal: what happens when someone dies
What happens to a PayPal account and any balance when someone dies, and the executor process to close it.
What a family member can do after a death
Only the executor or administrator can close the account. Send PayPal a cover note requesting closure, the death certificate, your photo ID and the grant of probate or letters of administration. Any remaining balance is paid out by cheque in the name of the person who died.
Frequently asked questions
What happens to the money in the account?
PayPal pays any balance to the estate by cheque in the deceased’s name; it does not simply transfer ownership.
Sources
- PayPal official help page: https://www.paypal.com/uk/cshelp/article/how-do-i-close-the-paypal-account-of-a-deceased-relative-help220
- FamilySafe guide: what happens to online accounts when someone dies
Last reviewed June 2026. Platform processes change, so please confirm on the PayPal help page before acting. This is general information, not legal or financial advice.
Access notes.
Only the executor or administrator can act. Provide a cover note, the death certificate, your photo ID and the grant of probate or letters of administration. Any balance is paid out by cheque in the deceased's name. Processing is usually quick once documents are complete.
Sources.
- PayPal help page - https://www.paypal.com/uk/cshelp/article/how-do-i-close-the-paypal-account-of-a-deceased-relative-help220
- Death Notification Service - https://www.deathnotificationservice.co.uk/
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