Following the death of a loved one, there are numerous practical steps that need to be taken. One of these is notifying credit bureaus, such as Equifax. Informing these agencies helps protect your loved one's identity and prevents fraudulent activity on their accounts.
Who Should Be Notified
Equifax is one of the three major credit bureaus in the United States. It collects and aggregates information on over 800 million individual consumers. If your loved one had any credit accounts, loans, or financial activity, they are likely to have a record with Equifax that needs to be updated.
When to Notify
You should notify Equifax as soon as possible after your loved one's passing. This is to avoid any potential identity theft and to ensure the credit report accurately reflects that the individual has passed away.
How to Notify
To notify Equifax of the death, you will need to mail a copy of the death certificate to Equifax Information Services LLC, P.O. Box 105139, Atlanta, GA 30348. Include your loved one's full name, Social Security number, date of birth, and most recent address.
It's also a good idea to include your name, address, and your relation to the deceased, along with a short letter stating that the individual has passed away and you want their credit file to reflect this.
What to Expect After Notification
Once Equifax receives your letter and the death certificate, they will update the credit file to indicate that the individual is deceased. This means that no new credit should be issued in your loved one's name. You may also request a copy of your loved one's credit report for your records.
Tips for Notification
When sending the death certificate, it's advisable to send a certified copy rather than the original. Also, consider sending your letter via certified mail, so you have proof of delivery. Keep copies of all correspondence for your records.
Conclusion
Notifying Equifax of a loved one's passing is an important step in settling their affairs. It might seem like a small detail in the face of loss, but it is a crucial part of safeguarding your loved one's identity and preventing potential fraud.
FAQ
Q: Can I notify Equifax online about the death?
A: Currently, Equifax does not provide an online method to report the death of a loved one. The notification needs to be sent via mail.
Q: How long does it take for Equifax to update the credit file?
A: It typically takes Equifax a few weeks to process the notification and update the credit file. However, it can take longer in some cases.
Q: Do I need to notify all three credit bureaus?
A: Yes, each credit bureau operates independently, so you should notify all three: Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion.
