Modern life involves dozens — sometimes hundreds — of accounts and subscriptions. Online banking, streaming services, utilities, credit cards, loyalty programs, shopping accounts, and more. When someone dies, managing and closing these accounts falls to their executor or family members. Without documentation, this process can take months of detective work and cost real money in continuing charges.
This guide covers what to document, what your family will need to close accounts, and the practical steps for managing accounts after a death.
Why This Matters More Than People Realize
Unclosed accounts after death create real problems:
- Subscription services continue charging — for months or years if no one notices
- Utility accounts left open create ongoing liabilities
- Credit card accounts with balances need to be settled with the estate
- Loyalty points and rewards may have cash value that's lost if accounts lapse
- Online accounts with payment methods attached can be exploited by fraudsters
Creating an Account Inventory
The most important thing you can do is document your accounts now, while you're alive and can provide accurate information. Your account inventory should include:
Financial Accounts
- Banks and credit unions (institution name, account type, account number)
- Investment and brokerage accounts
- Retirement accounts
- Credit cards (issuer, last four digits, approximate balance)
- Loans (lender, account number, monthly payment)
Subscriptions and Recurring Services
- Streaming services (Netflix, Spotify, Disney+, etc.)
- Cloud storage and software subscriptions
- News and magazine subscriptions
- Gym and club memberships
- Software and app subscriptions
Utility and Service Accounts
- Electricity, gas, water, sewer
- Internet and cable
- Cell phone
- Home security and alarm monitoring
Shopping and Loyalty Accounts
- Online shopping accounts (Amazon, etc.)
- Airline, hotel, and credit card rewards programs
- Store loyalty programs
See our guide on storing account credentials safely for how to document login information securely.
What Your Executor Will Need
To close or transfer accounts, your executor will typically need:
- A certified copy of the death certificate (order 8–12 copies)
- Letters testamentary or letters of administration (issued by the probate court)
- Account numbers and, where possible, login credentials
- The account holder's Social Security number
Each company has its own process — some require mail, some have online processes, some require phone calls with specific departments.
Special Considerations
Joint Accounts
Accounts held jointly pass to the surviving owner automatically. The surviving owner typically needs to provide a death certificate and their own identification to remove the deceased's name from the account.
Accounts with Outstanding Balances
Creditors must be notified and paid from the estate before assets are distributed to heirs. See our guide to how probate works for the process.
Accounts with Stored Value
Gift card balances, loyalty points, and prepaid accounts may have real value. Document these and ensure your executor knows to look for them. See our guide to loyalty points and rewards after death.
For the complete picture of organizing your digital and financial life for your heirs, see our complete guide to digital legacy and our assets inventory guide.