How Long Can an Account Stay Frozen?
An AMLA freeze has time limits and lapses if no charge follows, but a police freeze works differently.
Sources checked 2026-09-29
How long can a bank account stay frozen?
An AMLA freeze starts as a 90-day order from an enforcement agency. A later seizure order lapses 18 months after it is made if no one is charged [f1]. The wait can feel endless, but these orders have fixed limits.
A police freeze uses a different power, so first find out which kind you have.
The AMLA time limits
Under AMLA section 52A, a seizure order lapses 18 months after it is made, or after an earlier freezing order, if you are not charged and no prosecution has started. It ends on its own [f1].
The Court of Appeal applied this limit when it was 12 months, treating it as a real deadline. Since 1 March 2026 it has been 18 months [f2]. Ask for the date on the order, so you can count the months.
Police freezes: same 18 months, different route
Section 116D lets a police officer of Sergeant rank or above freeze an account at once, without a court order, if they suspect it is linked to crime [f4]. This freeze also lapses after 18 months if no prosecution is started.
The difference is how you challenge it. You apply to a Sessions Court to change or cancel a police freeze, not to the enforcement agency. So check which power was used on your account.
Getting money released while you wait
A freeze does not have to leave you with nothing for months. Under section 44A you can apply in writing to the enforcement agency to release money for reasonable living and business costs [f3].
The account stays frozen, but enough can be released for rent, bills and other essentials. Apply early, with clear documents.
What to do about the dates
Find out the date the freeze started and who ordered it, and get it in writing. Then note when the 18-month AMLA period ends [f1]. If you are struggling with living costs, apply under section 44A instead of waiting [f3].
Remember that 18 months is the limit when no one is charged, not how long yours will last [f1]. If a charge is brought, the money can stay restricted while the court case runs.
Keep a record of every date and letter. A lawyer can use them to raise the deadline at the right time and prepare the section 44A application for you.
Sources
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Can a freeze be extended past 18 months?
No court can extend the 18 months in section 52A. A seizure order lapses on its own if no charge is brought or prosecution started in that time [f1]. If you are charged, the money can stay restricted while the court case runs, because the 18 months applies only when no one is charged.
What happens to my money when the freeze lapses?
Can I get money out while it is still frozen?
Yes, you can apply in writing to the enforcement agency under section 44A to release money for reasonable living and business costs [f3]. The account stays frozen, but enough can be released for essentials. Apply early, with clear documents showing what you need.
Related pages
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Need a Lawyer for Your Frozen Account Case?
Request Lawyer ContactFor people seeking legal representation. For general information, use our guides and tools.
Independent information resource, not a law firm. We do not provide legal advice. Where appropriate and with your consent, we can connect you with an independent lawyer. Availability and acceptance of a case are not guaranteed. How referral works