Share This Checklist

How to Freeze and Close Credit Reports After Death

Freezing and closing a deceased person’s credit reports is an important step to protect their identity and financial legacy. This process prevents identity theft and unauthorized access to credit. Use this checklist to ensure a secure and efficient resolution of credit accounts after death.

  • Obtain multiple copies of the official death certificate.
  • Collect the deceased’s Social Security number, date of birth, and address.
  • Locate any credit card statements, loan documents, or financial account information.

  • Contact the three major credit bureaus: Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion.
  • Submit a request to freeze and flag the deceased’s credit report as “Deceased – Do Not Issue Credit.”
  • Provide the required documentation, including the death certificate and proof of your authority (executor or next of kin).

  • Notify all financial institutions where the deceased held accounts, such as banks and credit card companies.
  • Request account closures and confirm that no new accounts can be opened.
  • Obtain written confirmation that accounts have been closed or flagged appropriately.

  • Request copies of the deceased’s credit reports from each bureau.
  • Review the reports for active accounts, loans, or debts that need resolution.
  • Look for unauthorized accounts or suspicious activity.

  • Consult with the estate executor or attorney to determine how to settle outstanding debts.
  • Notify creditors of the death and provide necessary documentation.
  • Confirm the status of any joint accounts or co-signed loans.

  • Freeze or close online financial accounts tied to credit cards or loans.
  • Update or deactivate automatic payments linked to the deceased’s accounts.
  • Secure access to digital payment platforms like PayPal or Venmo.

  • Inform the Social Security Administration (SSA) of the death to prevent fraudulent use of the deceased’s SSN.
  • Report the death to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) for tax-related identity protection.
  • Verify that the SSA has updated its records to reflect the death.

  • Inform family members or beneficiaries about steps taken to secure the deceased’s credit.
  • Provide guidance on safeguarding their own credit and personal information if necessary.
  • Address concerns regarding joint accounts or shared liabilities.

  • Monitor for signs of identity theft, such as unauthorized transactions or new credit inquiries.
  • File identity theft alerts with credit bureaus if suspicious activity occurs.
  • Report identity theft to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and local authorities.

  • Maintain copies of all communications with credit bureaus, financial institutions, and creditors.
  • Document actions taken, including the dates and outcomes of account closures or freezes.
  • Store all records securely for future reference or legal requirements.

Save Time With Checklists

Buried in Work offers several checklists to save you time.

Get The Checklists

Leave Your Heirs The Gift Of Organization With a CLEAR Kit

Did you know?

The average estate takes 570 hours to administer.

Other Useful Checklists

Related Content