The simple answer is, it could be complicated. The money in your mother’s joint account for her convenience with your sister could get tangled up in any suit against your sister, although ultimately, if your mother were still alive, she would be entitled to show that it was not your sister’s to use.

What happens to my mother’s joint bank account after her death?

If not, it could cause family disputes. As for whether the creditors of your mother can reach the joint bank account after her death, note that this varies from state to state. In many states, the creditors are simply out of luck and cannot attach the account of a deceased joint owner.

Is it true that my sister has a bank account?

Recently, someone at the credit union where the account is held told her that if my sister were sued, or had creditors, that they could take funds from my mother’s account. Is this true? Also, as far as estate planning, my mother has only cash (about 200k).

What happens if my name is on my mom’s checking account?

So if her will says “All my assets go equally to my children,” and you are the only one on the bank account with her, then the money in the joint bank account will pass to you alone and not to your siblings. If this is what your mother intends, that’s fine. If not, it could cause family disputes.

Is the bank account in my mother’s name?

For convenience sake, my mother’s bank account is held jointly in her name and in my sister’s name. Recently, someone at the credit union where the account is held told her that if my sister were sued, or had creditors, that they could take funds from my mother’s account.

Can a sister sign checks on behalf of parents?

If it’s the former, your sister is a joint owner and can spend the money as she wishes. She would likely be liable for debts on that account after your parents’ death. If it’s the latter, your sister has the right to sign checks on your parents’ behalf.