Managing the affairs of a deceased loved one can be overwhelming. One task that often goes overlooked is handling their mail. Whether you're the executor, personal representative, successor trustee, or simply the new owner of a deceased person's home, ensuring that mail addressed to them is properly managed is an important step in settling their affairs.

Here's a step-by-step guide to stopping mail addressed to a deceased person:

1. Notify the Post Office with Official Documentation

If you've been appointed as the executor or personal representative of the estate, notify the post office of your authority. Provide:

• Proof of your appointment (e.g., probate order or trust documents).
• A completed change-of-address request to redirect the deceased person's mail to your address.

Note: According to the United States Postal Service (USPS), this request must be done in person.

Once the estate is closed, deliver or mail a copy of the court order closing the estate to the local post office with a written request to stop all mail services.

2. Remove the Deceased from Commercial Mailing Lists

To reduce unwanted mail (e.g., catalogs and solicitations), visit the Deceased Do Not Contact Registration page on the DMAchoice.org website.

• Enter the deceased person's details.
• Pay the $1 authentication fee.

Mail from commercial marketing lists should decrease within three months. This service is available to friends, relatives, or caregivers of the deceased.

3. Cancel Subscriptions and Notify Charities

Subscriptions, magazines, and solicitations from charities the deceased supported often continue after their passing.

• Contact these organizations directly to inform them of the death.
• Some publishers may issue refunds for unused subscriptions.

Taking this step not only reduces mail but also ensures accounts are properly closed.

4. Handle Mail at the Deceased's Former Address

If you shared an address with the deceased or are the new owner of their home, write “Deceased, Return to Sender” on any mail addressed to them. Leave it in your mailbox for pickup by the postal carrier.

Important: It is a federal offense to open and read someone else's mail unless you are their legal representative. Always act within the bounds of the law.

Why Managing Mail Matters

Redirecting and stopping mail is essential for:

• Settling outstanding debts.
• Identifying important assets or accounts.
• Avoiding complications from sensitive or misdirected mail.

Need Help Managing a Loved One's Affairs?

Grieving the loss of a loved one is difficult enough without the added responsibilities of handling their estate. If you need assistance managing their affairs, including mail and other estate matters, we're here to help.

📞 Contact us today for expert guidance and support.