Even after death, identity theft is a risk.

The Notifying Credit Bureaus After Death Information Hub

When someone passes away, their credit file doesn’t automatically close. Until the credit bureaus are formally notified, new accounts could still be fraudulently opened in their name. This hub explains why it’s important to report a death to the three major credit bureaus—Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion—and how to do it. Whether you’re an executor or next of kin, taking this step helps protect the estate and prevents identity misuse.

Credit Report

Table of Contents

Key Things To Know

Notifying credit bureaus is about more than paperwork. It's a key step in protecting the deceased’s identity and avoiding legal and financial complications.

  • You need to contact all three credit bureaus: Each bureau maintains its own separate records. To fully protect the deceased’s identity, you must notify Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion individually.
  • You don’t need to wait until probate is complete: You can notify the bureaus shortly after the death is confirmed. The sooner you act, the sooner they can flag the account and prevent fraudulent activity.
  • Only certain people can file the notice: Typically, it must come from the executor, personal representative, or surviving spouse. Some bureaus accept a notification from immediate family with proof of relationship.
  • You’ll need key documents: Most bureaus require a copy of the death certificate, proof of your identity, and legal documentation showing your relationship to the deceased or your authority to act on their behalf.
  • They won’t close the file right away: Once notified, the credit file will be flagged as “deceased,” which prevents new accounts from being opened. It may stay in place for several months to support probate and estate claims.

How to Notify the Credit Bureaus After a Death

Notifying the credit bureaus helps prevent identity theft, blocks new account openings, and protects the estate. Here's how to do it, step by step.

Step 1: Gather the documents you’ll need

You’ll need to include copies of:

  • The death certificate (certified is best)
  • Your government-issued photo ID
  • Legal documents proving your authority (e.g., Letters Testamentary, or a marriage certificate if you're a surviving spouse)

Step 2: Write a formal notification letter

Your letter should include:

  • The deceased’s full name, Social Security number, date of birth, and last known address
  • The date of death
  • Your name, relationship to the deceased, and contact information
  • A request to flag the file as "Deceased" and to block any new credit activity

Step 3: Mail the letter and documents to each credit bureau

Send separate mailings to each of the three bureaus. Use certified mail or another trackable method so you can confirm delivery.

Mailing addresses:

  • Equifax: P.O. Box 105139, Atlanta, GA 30348-5139
  • Experian: P.O. Box 4500, Allen, TX 75013
  • TransUnion: P.O. Box 2000, Chester, PA 19016

Step 4: Request a copy of the deceased’s credit report

This helps you check for unknown accounts or suspicious activity. You may need to complete an additional form or send more documentation to get the report.

Step 5: Keep records of everything you send

Make copies of your letters and documents. Track the dates you send them and when you receive replies. Store these in your CLEAR Kit or estate binder for safekeeping.

Articles

Credit Report

How to Freeze and Close Credit Reports After Death

img 10

How to Order a Copy of Someone’s Credit Report After They Die

img 11

Why You Should Order a Copy of Someone’s Credit Report After They Die

img 12

How to Notify a Credit Bureau of a Death

Frequently Asked Questions

Each bureau operates independently and may have different records. Notifying just one doesn’t guarantee the others will be updated. To protect the estate, notify all three.

At this time, most credit bureaus still require mailed documentation for death notifications. Some may allow you to start the process online, but you will still need to submit documents.

In some cases, a surviving spouse or next of kin can notify the bureaus. You’ll need to include documentation that proves your relationship and identity.

No, but it helps prevent new credit offers and account activity. To stop unwanted mail, you can also register with the DMA Deceased Do Not Contact List at dmachoice.org.

The credit file is flagged as “deceased,” which freezes activity but may remain accessible for estate and probate use. It typically stays in place for several years before being closed entirely.

Yes. It’s a good idea to check for signs of fraud or unusual activity. You can request a copy of the credit report as part of the notification process.

The credit bureaus can be notified automatically, but it typically happens through the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) Death Master File (DMF). When a death is reported to the SSA—usually by a funeral home, hospital, or family member—they update their internal records. The credit bureaus receive periodic updates from this file and may eventually flag the deceased’s credit file as such.

However, there are a few important caveats:

  1. It can take weeks or months: The update from the SSA to the credit bureaus is not instant. In the meantime, the deceased's credit file remains active and vulnerable to fraud.
  2. Not all deaths are included: Some deaths never make it onto the Death Master File due to reporting gaps or data errors. This is especially true if the SSA was not directly notified, or if the death occurred abroad.
  3. The SSA doesn’t notify the bureaus directly on your behalf: They provide bulk data. It’s up to each bureau to process it on their own timeline. There’s no guarantee they’ll flag a file promptly or accurately.
  4. Executors still bear responsibility: Even if a bureau is eventually notified, that doesn't relieve the executor or next of kin from the responsibility to secure the deceased’s credit and prevent fraud.

Do not rely on automatic reporting. To truly protect the estate, you should still proactively notify each credit bureau yourself in writing, with proper documentation.

Information Hub Feedback & Suggestions

Do you have a question, suggestion, or idea on how to improve this Information Hub? If so, we'd love to hear from you.

Disclaimer: The information provided on this website and by Buried in Work is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. Please consult with a qualified attorney or subject matter expert for advice specific to your situation.