Instances of stolen identities and fraudulent use of private information continue to wreak havoc on many lives. It can take months, even years, to undo the damage that can be caused by someone gaining access to private data and assuming another’s identity. Even with more advanced password protections, firewalls, and credit card chips more cases of identity theft are reported daily.
Primary targets of this behavior are those who recently passed away. When someone dies, their estate may be public knowledge. The information obtained through estate files can reveal information on assets owned, taxes and income received. Understandably, the grieving family already has so much to deal with during this difficult time and protecting the identity of the deceased may not be at the forefront of their minds. Unfortunately, it needs to be.
Steps to Take to Prevent Identity Theft of the Deceased
1. The executor of the estate should contact all account holders of the deceased to notify them of the death. This includes credit card companies, banks, investment account holders and mortgage companies. Most of these financial institutions will require a copy of the death certificate. Ask each institution to make a note on the account that the person is deceased and to notify the executor if any transactions occur.
2. The executor should then inform all three major credit reporting bureaus of the death:
Equifax:1-800-685-1111; Equifax.com/personal/credit-report-services.
Experian: 1-888-397-3742; Experian.com/help.
TransUnion: 1-888-909-8872; TransUnion.com/credit-help.
3. If the deceased collected any government benefits such as veterans’ benefits or social security, those agencies need to be informed as well.
4. If the deceased had a drivers’ license or official state identification, then contact the Department of Motor Vehicles.
5. Contact all insurance companies where the deceased held policies.
6. Contact all private memberships, subscription services, etc.
This requires a lot of the executor. It is easier to do this on the front end, then to deal with the consequences of identity theft, fraud and stolen assets. For more information on estate administration and protecting the deceased, contact the experienced probate attorneys at Stouffer Legal in the Greater Baltimore area. You can schedule an appointment by calling us at (443) 470-3599 or emailing us at office@stoufferlegal.com.
