How to Get a Credit Report on a Deceased Person

A credit report for a deceased individual provides a comprehensive overview of their financial obligations and history. Obtaining this document is a step in managing an estate, identifying outstanding debts, and protecting against potential identity fraud. The report details credit accounts, payment activities, and any public records, offering a snapshot of the deceased’s credit standing.

Establishing Your Right to Access

Accessing a deceased person’s credit report is not automatic for all family members; it is generally restricted to individuals with legal authority over the estate. The executor, appointed in a will, or an administrator, designated by a court when there is no will, possesses this right. These roles carry a fiduciary duty to manage the deceased’s financial affairs, including identifying and settling debts. Legal documents such as “Letters Testamentary” (for an executor) or “Letters of Administration” (for an administrator) formally grant this authority.

Gathering Required Documentation

Before initiating a request for a deceased person’s credit report, assemble the necessary documentation. A certified copy of the deceased person’s death certificate is universally required, as it serves as official proof of death. This document should be obtained from the vital records office in the state where the death occurred.

The individual making the request must also provide proof of their own identity, typically a government-issued identification such as a driver’s license. Additionally, legal documentation confirming the requester’s authority, like Letters Testamentary or Letters of Administration, must be included. Finally, specific identifying information about the deceased is needed, including their full legal name, Social Security Number, date of birth, and last known address.

Requesting the Report from Credit Bureaus

Once all necessary documentation is gathered, submit a formal request to each of the three major credit reporting agencies: Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. Requests for deceased individuals’ credit reports are predominantly handled via mail. The primary reason for this preference is the need to provide original or certified copies of sensitive legal documents.

A written request letter should accompany the documents, clearly stating the purpose of the request and including all required identifying information for both the deceased and the requester. Send these requests via certified mail with a return receipt requested. This provides a tracking record and confirmation of delivery. Each bureau processes these requests within a few business days to several weeks, after which they may notify the other two bureaus of the death.

Interpreting the Deceased Person’s Credit Report

Upon obtaining the deceased person’s credit report, several categories of information will be visible. The report details various types of accounts, such as credit cards, personal loans, mortgages, and auto loans. Each account listing includes the account balance, payment history, and the name of the creditor.

The report also shows any collection accounts or public records, such as bankruptcies or judgments. Personal identifying information, including past addresses and variations of the deceased’s name, will also be present. A credit report may not encompass all of the deceased’s financial obligations, as some debts, like certain medical bills or private loans, might not be reported to the major credit bureaus.