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Credit Advice
Topics addressed on September 12, 2012:
Executor of an estate can obtain the deceased’s credit report
Dear Experian,
I am the personal representative for my brother's estate. I'm trying to identify his active credit accounts so that I can compile a list of creditors for the estate. Is it possible for the estate executor to order a credit report for the deceased?
- NJN
Dear NJN,
We are sorry for your loss. You can obtain a copy of your brother’s credit report by mailing a request in writing along with a copy of the death certificate and proof that you are authorized to act on his behalf, such as a copy of a legal document with a court seal indicating you are the executor of the estate.
When compiling the list of debts, keep in mind that not all creditors report to all of the credit reporting agencies, so it may be a good idea to request his report from Equifax and Trans Union as well. Even then, some creditors may choose not to report at all, so it is possible that he could have accounts that do not appear on a credit report.
Even if he has no outstanding balance with a creditor, please notify all that are reporting open accounts that he is deceased to help prevent fraud.
Thanks for asking.
- The "Ask Experian" team