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AIBU?

Share your dilemmas and get honest opinions from other Mumsnetters.

To think that banks need to sort themselves out?

29 replies

AnnaQuayRules · 17/04/2026 17:11

Banks have closed branches as most people now bank online. So why do they not adapt their practice to support online banking???

DH's mother died a few months ago, and probate has just been granted. She had some money in her bank accounts which now goes to DH and his (step) sibling.

Bank have refused to transfer the money into DH's bank account as it is too big an amount. I don't know what their cut off is, but apparently the amount being inherited is too high. So they are sending DH a cheque.

DH has two bank accounts at different banks. One has said they no longer accept cheques, even from another bank. The other bank says that DH can post them the cheque but, given the value, they would advise DH to bring it into a branch and pay it in in person. However, the nearest branch to us is closed for refurbishment and the next nearest is over 70 miles away, and not open on Saturdays.

It seems madness that, in this day and age, banks can't do bank transfers in these scenarios. If necessary DH can take a half day of leave and go to the bank 70 miles away but it feels ridiculous.

AIBU to think that, if banks want to be online businesses, they need to ensure that people can send and receive money virtually. And if they insist that people visit a physical branch then they need to have one to go to?

OP posts:
LlynTegid · 17/04/2026 17:27

The FCA should be making rules for all banks to cover this.

shellyleppard · 17/04/2026 17:26

Could you pay the cheque in via the post office??

BrightLightTonight · 17/04/2026 17:19

Just post the cheque - its safe, not sure why the bank said it wouldn’t be.

The reason you can’t just transfer a large amount of money is due to fraud checks - they are actually safeguarding you

Fairyliz · 17/04/2026 17:17

I feel your pain. I’m executor for an estate and it’s a nightmare getting money from the banks.
You have to take death certificates, probate certificates in to a branch which maybe miles away. Alternatively you can post the documents which are rarely returned so you need to make sure you have several death certificates (at £15 each).
The worse thing is proving my address. They want a copy of a utility bill etc , but won’t accept one that has been downloaded. However everything is online now, including the banks!
Madness