Mail redirection deceased estate

A sensitive topic!

When a person passes away, their estate, including their mail, needs to be managed and distributed according to their wishes or the laws of their jurisdiction. Here's a general outline of the process for redirecting mail in a deceased estate:

  1. Notify the relevant authorities: Inform the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) and the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) of the person's passing. This will help prevent any unnecessary correspondence or notifications.
  2. Gather necessary documents: Collect the deceased person's identification documents, such as their driver's license, passport, and any relevant correspondence (e.g., bank statements, utility bills).
  3. Identify the executor or administrator: Determine who will be responsible for managing the deceased person's estate. This person is usually named in the will or appointed by the court.
  4. Redirect mail: The executor or administrator should contact Australia Post to redirect the deceased person's mail to their own address or to the address of the estate's beneficiaries. You can do this by:
    • Visiting a post office and providing the necessary documents and information.
    • Calling Australia Post's customer service on 13 13 18.
    • Completing an online form on the Australia Post website.
  5. Notify relevant organizations: Inform other organizations that may have sent mail to the deceased person, such as:
    • Banks and financial institutions
    • Credit providers
    • Insurance companies
    • Utility providers (e.g., electricity, gas, water)
    • Government agencies (e.g., Centrelink, Medicare)
  6. Manage the estate's mail: The executor or administrator should regularly check the redirected mail and respond to any urgent matters. They should also keep a record of all correspondence and transactions related to the estate.
  7. Dispose of unclaimed mail: After a reasonable period, the executor or administrator can dispose of any unclaimed mail, such as by shredding or recycling it.

Remember to always follow the specific laws and regulations of your jurisdiction when managing a deceased estate. It's also a good idea to consult with a lawyer or estate administrator to ensure you're fulfilling your responsibilities correctly.