Australia post deceased estate mail redirection
A very practical and important topic!
When a loved one passes away, it can be overwhelming to manage their affairs, including their mail and correspondence. Australia Post offers a Deceased Estate Mail Redirection service to help you manage their mail and ensure that important documents and communications are not lost or missed.
Here's how it works:
Eligibility: The deceased person's estate must be in the process of being administered, and you must be authorized to act on their behalf.
Application process:
- Gather the necessary documents:
- Death certificate
- Proof of identity (e.g., driver's license, passport)
- Proof of relationship (e.g., birth certificate, marriage certificate)
- Complete the application form: You can download the Deceased Estate Mail Redirection application form from the Australia Post website or pick one up from a post office.
- Submit the application: Take the completed form and supporting documents to a post office or mail center. You may need to provide additional information or documentation, so be prepared to answer questions or provide further evidence.
What the service includes:
- Redirection of mail to a nominated address (e.g., your home, a lawyer's office, or a trust account)
- Notification to senders that the deceased person has passed away
- Holding of mail for a specified period (up to 12 months)
- Return of mail to the sender if it is not claimed within the specified period
Fees: There is a fee for the Deceased Estate Mail Redirection service, which varies depending on the length of the redirection period. You can find the current fees on the Australia Post website.
Tips and considerations:
- It's essential to act quickly to apply for the redirection service, as mail may be delayed or lost if not redirected promptly.
- Make sure to notify relevant parties, such as banks, creditors, and government agencies, of the deceased person's passing to avoid any potential issues.
- Consider consulting with a lawyer or estate administrator to ensure you are properly authorized to act on behalf of the deceased person's estate.
- Keep in mind that the redirection service only applies to mail sent to the deceased person's address, not to mail sent to other addresses or online accounts.
By redirecting the deceased person's mail, you can help ensure that important documents and communications are not lost or missed, making the process of administering their estate easier and less stressful.