This can be a complex area and depends on the policy of the data controllers in question and any preferences that the individual(s) involved may have expressed. However, from a data protection perspective, any entity/data controller/service provider with a policy of transacting business with the named account holder only is perfectly entitled to adopt that approach. In fact, such a policy would be wise as the revealing of account information to a spouse or former spouse will in most situations create a breach of data protection law if undertaken without the consent of the other spouse or former spouse.

For further information, read our guidance on contacting organisations on behalf of someone else.