Bank limits · From Tesco Bank’s own website, 4 November 2026

Tesco Bank probate limit

Tesco Bank releases up to £50,000 in the person’s name alone without probate. Above that, it asks for a grant of probate (or letters of administration).

“This only applies if the total value of the account(s) is more than £50,000 and they're held in the sole name of the person who has passed away.”
Tesco Bank’s own words, from its website, read on 4 November 2026

Now part of Barclays, but tell each bank separately. The most common limit is £50,000, at 21 of the 95 banks and building societies we list.

Will Tesco Bank ask for probate?

Type roughly how much was in their name alone at Tesco Bank. Add their other banks too if you like.

Add up every account in their name alone at that bank. Leave out joint accounts. What you type stays in your browser.

Questions about Tesco Bank and probate

How much can Tesco Bank release without probate?

Tesco Bank releases up to £50,000 in the person’s name alone without probate. Above that, it asks for a grant of probate (or letters of administration). In its own words: “This only applies if the total value of the account(s) is more than £50,000 and they're held in the sole name of the person who has passed away.” From Tesco Bank’s own website, checked 4 November 2026.

Do joint Tesco Bank accounts need probate?

Usually not. A joint account normally passes straight to the other account holder, so it doesn’t count towards Tesco Bank’s limit. Only money in the person’s name alone does.

Is the Tesco Bank limit per account?

No, banks look at the total. Add up every account in the person’s name alone at Tesco Bank. Money at other banks is judged against each bank’s own limit.

What if the Tesco Bank balance is over the limit?

Apply for probate (or letters of administration if there’s no will), then send Tesco Bank a copy of the grant. One grant works at every bank, so if any one bank needs it, it covers the rest too.

What about Tesco Bank’s sister banks?

In Tesco Bank’s own words: “Although Tesco Bank is now part of the Barclays Group, we won't automatically notify Barclays on your behalf.” From its own website, checked 4 November 2026.

Other banks’ limits

Not sure you need probate at all? Use the 3-question checker. Spotted a change at Tesco Bank? hello@probatechecklist.co.uk