When a loved one passes away, one of the important tasks that often falls on the shoulders of surviving family members or executors of the estate is notifying various organizations and companies the deceased was associated with. One such organization can be credit card companies like American Express, to prevent identity theft and settle any remaining balance.
Who Should Be Notified
The American Express Company, also known as Amex, is a multinational financial services corporation. If your loved one had an American Express credit card, it's crucial to notify them of the death to close the account and handle any remaining balance.
When to Notify
You should notify American Express as soon as possible after the death of your loved one. This will prevent any further charges from accumulating on the account and will also protect against potential identity theft.
How to Notify
You can notify American Express of a cardholder's death by calling their customer service number listed on the back of the card. You will need to provide the cardholder's name, credit card number, and date of death. In some cases, American Express may also request a copy of the death certificate, which can be sent by mail or fax.
What to Expect After Notification
Upon notification, American Express will close the cardholder's account and provide information on any remaining balance. If the cardholder left a will, estate, or any other form of assets, these could be used to pay off the balance. If there are no such resources, the debt is typically written off.
Tips for Notification
When notifying American Express, keep a record of who you spoke with, the date and time of the call, and any important information given during the conversation. This can be helpful for future reference. If you're asked to send any documents, consider sending them by certified mail so you have a record of delivery.
Conclusion
Notifying American Express of a loved one's death is an important step in managing their financial affairs. By acting promptly and maintaining good records, you can ensure this task is handled efficiently and correctly.
FAQ
Q: What if I can't find the card or don't know the card number?
A: American Express should be able to locate the account with the cardholder's name and other identifying information, such as their Social Security number or date of birth.
Q: What happens if there's a balance on the card but no estate or funds to pay it off?
A: Typically, if there's no estate or funds to pay off the balance, the debt is written off by the credit card company.
Q: Can I use the card to pay for funeral expenses?
A: No, once the cardholder has passed away, their credit card should not be used for any reason.
