Joint Accounts and Mental Capacity

If you are concerned about the future mental capacity of a relative or any other person with whom you have a joint bank account, it makes sense to consider setting up the appropriate power(s) of attorney.

The British Bankers’ Association’s guidance for members advises them to freeze all joint accounts if one of the account signatories becomes mentally incapable.

Should this happen, the account will remain frozen until the bank concerned receives a valid power of attorney.

Even where there is an appropriate power of attorney in place, there is likely to be some minor disruption. However, where no such power exists, it can cause significant difficulties, especially where the account concerned is used for everyday living expenses or in connection with the operation of a business.

The contents of this article are intended for general information purposes only and shall not be deemed to be, or constitute legal advice. We cannot accept responsibility for any loss as a result of acts or omissions taken in respect of this article.