When a loved one passes away, one of the necessary responsibilities is notifying various financial institutions, such as credit card companies. If your loved one had a credit card with Discover, you'll need to inform them to close the account and prevent any future charges. This article guides you through this process.
Who Should Be Notified
Discover Card Services needs to be informed of the cardholder's death. This includes notifying them about any credit card insurance that the deceased may have had, which might cover outstanding balances under certain circumstances.
When to Notify
You should aim to notify Discover as soon as possible following the death. This helps prevent additional charges, interest, or potential identity theft.
How to Notify
You can notify Discover of a death by calling their customer service number at 1-800-DISCOVER (1-800-347-2683). Have the deceased's account details ready. Bear in mind that Discover may require a copy of the death certificate, which can be sent by mail or fax.
What to Expect After Notification
After Discover has been notified, they will close the account and cease any further charges. If the deceased had Credit Card Insurance, they would guide you through any necessary steps to claim this. Any balance due may be covered by the insurance or become a part of the deceased's estate.
Tips for Notification
Make sure to keep a record of all interactions with Discover, including the date and time of your call and the name of the representative you spoke with. If you're sending any documents by mail, use certified mail to ensure they arrive safely.
Conclusion
While dealing with a loved one's financial matters after their death can be daunting, it's an essential part of tying up their affairs. Notifying Discover promptly and efficiently helps ensure that their account is handled correctly, potentially alleviating some stress during this challenging time.
FAQ
Q: What if I don't have all the account details?
A: Discover can usually locate the account using the cardholder's name and Social Security number. They can then guide you through the next steps.
Q: Who is responsible for any outstanding balance?
A: If the deceased had Credit Card Insurance, this may cover the balance. If not, the balance will typically become part of the deceased's estate. It's not generally passed on to family members unless they were co-signers on the account.
Q: Can I notify Discover online?
A: Currently, Discover requires notification of a death to be done over the phone, followed by mailing or faxing a copy of the death certificate.
