The Short Answer

In Pennsylvania, it depends on what you mean by “co-signer.” If the person is a true joint owner with right of survivorship, the remaining balance generally belongs to the surviving owner at death (not the probate estate). If the person is merely an authorized signer/convenience signer (not an owner), using the decedent’s funds after death can be improper because the money is typically part of the estate and should be handled by the court-appointed personal representative.

What Pennsylvania Law Says

Pennsylvania treats many bank accounts as “multiple-party accounts.” The key legal question is whether the account was set up as a joint account with survivorship (which usually passes outside probate) or whether the decedent remained the beneficial owner and the other person only had signing authority (which does not automatically transfer ownership at death).

Separately, once an estate is opened, the personal representative generally has the right to take possession of and administer the decedent’s personal property (which typically includes bank funds that are probate assets).

The Statute

The primary law governing survivorship rights in a joint bank account is 20 Pa.C.S. § 6304.

This statute establishes that money left in a joint account at death generally belongs to the surviving party as against the decedent’s estate, unless there is clear and convincing evidence the account was intended to work differently.

Why You Should Speak with an Attorney

Even though the rule sounds straightforward, disputes over “co-signer” accounts are common because banks and families often use that term to describe very different arrangements. Legal outcomes often depend on:

• Account Type and Paperwork: Under Pennsylvania law, survivorship can turn on the form of the account and the intent shown by the account documents and surrounding facts. (See 20 Pa.C.S. § 6304.)
• Burden of Proof: If heirs claim the survivor was only added for convenience (or that there was undue influence), they may try to rebut survivorship with “clear and convincing” evidence—often leading to Orphans’ Court litigation.
• Estate Administration Risk: If the funds are actually estate property, using them before a personal representative is appointed can trigger claims for repayment and potential fiduciary/misconduct allegations—especially if other heirs or creditors are involved.

If you’re dealing with a closed account, withdrawals after death, or family conflict, it’s worth getting legal advice early so you don’t accidentally create personal liability or derail the estate administration.

For more background, you may also find these helpful: Do joint bank accounts automatically transfer at death in Pennsylvania? and How do I prove right of survivorship on a joint bank account in Pennsylvania?.

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Disclaimer: This article provides general information under Pennsylvania law and does not create an attorney-client relationship. Laws change frequently. For legal advice specific to your situation, please consult with a licensed attorney.