Originally Posted by tauphi

The age of the heir is not relevant as she would also be legally entitled to her share. I'm just surprised that the bank did not request for proof that she (or her legal representative) is consenting to this transfer as this could open the bank up to future liability claims.

In my experience accessing bank accounts/funds for deceased persons is a major pain in China as they want you to track down all potential claimants and prove that they all consent. Just one missing person could hold up the process for years.