Identity theft is the last thing a grieving family should have to worry about after the loss of a loved one. Unfortunately, identity thieves have increasingly targeted the identities of deceased people, using their names and other identifying information to get credit cards, apply for loans, collect refunds based on fraudulent tax returns, and even obtain “proof” of U.S. citizenship. Although family members are not personally responsible for thedebts oftheir deceased loved ones, it may take an effort to resolve the situation if a loved one’s identity is stolen. You and your family can take action to prevent identity theft from happening.
What Should You Do to Prevent the Theft of a Deceased Loved One’s Identity? Thieves will not wait for your family to grieve before trying to steal and use your loved one’s identity to open accounts. A spouse, family member, or the executor of the deceased person’s estate should take immediate action to prevent the decedent’s personal information from being stolen.
Don’t reveal personal information.
Immediately take steps to close credit accounts.
Contact all banks, investment companies, lenders, or mortgage companies.
Notify the three major credit bureaus.
Notify the Social Security Administration (SSA).
Notify the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).
Contact the Department of Motor Vehicles.
Monitor the deceased person’s credit report.
Notify any other relevant groups.
If you discover that your loved one’s identity has been stolen despite your efforts to prevent it, contact the police and notify any company involved immediately. Give us a Call. It’s hard enough to lose a loved one, and the stress induced by identity theft can make the loss even more painful. We can help ensure that you and the executor of your loved one’s estate take all the steps necessary to prevent your deceased loved one’s identity from being stolen. Contact us today for an appointment to discuss this or any of your other estate planning concerns.
Comments