When someone has died, their bank (and other organisations) may ask for proof that you are entitled to deal with their affairs. If the amount involved is relatively small (typically below £10,000), or the account is in joint names, they may only need to see a death certificate.
But normally the executors named in the will need to obtain a ‘grant of probate’. If there is no will, a spouse, civil partner or other close family needs to apply for ‘letters of administration’. Either of these can be referred to as a ‘grant of representation’. The application is made to the Probate Service.
Getting a grant of representation can take several months if the estate is complex. You need to value your husband’s estate and submit inheritance tax forms to HM Revenue & Customs. If any inheritance tax is due, at least some of it has to be paid within six months (though in some cases payments can be spread over up to 10 years) — so you may need to pay before you have a grant of representation.
A solicitor can help you with the whole process and with inheritance tax issues.