Losing a loved one is an incredibly challenging time and managing their financial affairs can add to the stress. One important task is to notify their telco provider about their death. Handling this promptly and correctly ensures accounts are closed or transferred quickly, preventing any unnecessary or unauthorised transactions or the loss of a critical service. This guide provides the steps needed to notify a telco after someone’s death.
What Happens to the Telco Account of a Deceased Person
After someone’s death, their telco account doesn’t automatically close. Initially, accounts may be frozen – with transactions halted – until the proper legal processes are completed. Executors or next of kin typically handle these duties, ensuring all related liabilities and obligations are settled.
First Steps After a Loved One Passes Away
The initial steps you take after a loved one passes away are vital in ensuring that their financial affairs are handled correctly:
- Identify the Executor: If there is a will, it will name an executor who is responsible for managing the deceased’s estate.
- Apply to Become Administrator: If there isn’t a will, this situation is called ‘intestate’. Generally, the person with the greatest entitlement in the estate will need to apply for a court will need to appoint them as administrator.
- Inform Relevant Parties: Notify other important entities such as banks, insurance companies, utility providers, government entities and any superannuation funds.
- Obtain the Death Certificate: This is the primary document you will need to close or transfer accounts.
How to Notify a Telco of Someone’s Death
Most major Australian telco providers have dedicated bereavement services. Here are some links to these web pages:
Instructions on Closing or Transferring Accounts
Inform the telco provider whether you wish to close or transfer the account.
Providing Necessary Documents
Each telco has a different process, you may need to provide the following documents:
- Death certificate
- Proof of identity for both the deceased and the notifying party
- For a transfer, details allowing for a credit check of account recipient
Common Issues
What Happens if There is an Amount Outstanding?
If money is owed to the provider after a telco account holder’s death, it is up to the executor or administrator to settle these debts. Some providers will waive these debts for deceased accounts with small balances owed. If the account is in credit, the utility provider generally refunds the balance to the estate.
Joint Accounts
If the account is in joint names, the surviving account holder can usually continue the service without interruption. Contact the telco provider for specific instructions.
Accessing Online Accounts
If you don’t have the login details for the deceased’s online utility accounts, contact the provider for assistance in accessing and managing these accounts.
Where to Find Additional Support
There are many resources available to provide additional support during this time:
- Legal Advice: Consult with a lawyer specialising in estate law for comprehensive assistance.
- Financial Counselling: Seek financial advice to help manage the deceased’s assets effectively.
- Online Tools and Services: Platforms like BillWill can simplify the process of managing and closing accounts.
Conclusion
Managing a loved one’s financial affairs after their passing is a sensitive and crucial task. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can ensure that their telco accounts are handled efficiently and with minimal stress.
