TSEM6112 | Legal background to trusts & estates: administrators - deceased was self-employed
From HM Revenue & Customs · Trusts, Settlements and Estates Manual
The deceased’s business ceases at the date of death. Administrators may continue the business, only to arrange a sale.
They cannot access any funds held by the deceased until they get letters of administration. Often there are day-to-day expenses that cannot wait until then, particularly if the deceased was self-employed. They may have to arrange a bank overdraft.