My sister is in a coma, how do I get access to her bank account so I can pay her bills?

[GH1982]

My little sister is in a coma. At present we have no reason to believe she won't wake up and live a relatively normal life. She has a bank loan and credit card which have ppi, how do i activte this. Also I need to gain access to her bank account so that I can make arrangements for her bills etc to be paid. What do I do???? Worth noting that she has no assets etc. I am based in the UK

[dotty.]

Are you her only relative?

[GH1982]

No, but my parents are too distraught to do or consider anything at this stage.

[ummmm]

So this bank loan and CC doesn't get paid by direct debit?

If not the best thing you can do is call them and explain the situation....you won't get access to her account.

[boxtops]

This is a duplicate post, I have answered on the other one http://www.theanswerb...e/Question977763.html

[ummmm]

Haha Boxy....lol

[dotty.]

it is probably best that you ask the bank what their procedure would be in such circumstances. You will not be able to do much else.

[ummmm]

Could you imagine...

YOU...My sister's in a coma...

Ok...there's all her money...

SISTER....where's all my money?

[welshlibranr]

You should not be worrying about this at this time!...................Let them wait!........

[GH1982]

While appreciate everyone's time in answering this question. I aware that I won't be able to gain access etc etc what I am hoping for is if anyone has any useful info. What happens if someone is in a coma for a lengthy period. Has anyone had experience going throught the process. I cn't get power of attorney as she has to sign it and since she is in a coma this is impossible.

[ummmm]

Phone them and explain. I'm sure the doctor/s will sign a letter explaining the situation. There is a good chance that the accounts will be put on hold..

[Invictas]

You might find the website of The Court of Protection interesting?
http://www.publicguar...urt-of-protection.htm

[lotsafun]

the best and only option really is to wait for these creditors to get in touch via letter or phone call and then get in touch to let them know the situation. Perhaps they can put the accounts on hold till she is better. Hope she gets well soon GH

[Prudie]

I'd have thought the hospital could advise, this situation must happen everyday to them.

[sara3]

yes, the hospital would have more experience on this matter.

also, you should contact the people she owes money to and explain the situation.

[anneasquith]

i agree with pru. social work department at the hospital should be able to give you advice, i hope your sister gets better soon.

[philkool]

how much are the payments ?

[beso]

This situation shows why everyone should arrange a power of attorney and guardianship to cover such circumstances.

I don't know what the law is like in the UK but where I live in Australia one does not even have the rights to decide on medical matters for one's own spouse in this situation without a guardianship being in place.