How to Stop Receiving Deceased Person’s Mail
Losing a loved one is an incredibly difficult and emotional experience. Along with the grief and sorrow, you may also find yourself dealing with practical matters, such as handling the deceased person’s mail. Receiving mail intended for someone who has passed away can be unsettling and intrusive. To ensure that you no longer receive these unwanted pieces of correspondence, follow these steps to stop receiving deceased person’s mail.
1. Contact the Post Office
The first step in stopping the flow of deceased person’s mail is to inform the United States Postal Service (USPS). You can do this by visiting your local post office and filling out a form called “Change of Address and Deceased Notice.” This form allows you to notify the USPS that the individual has passed away and that you would like to receive their mail. Be prepared to provide identification and proof of the person’s death, such as a death certificate or obituary.
2. Provide Proof of Death
To complete the process, you must provide proof of the deceased person’s death. This can be a death certificate, obituary, or any other official documentation that confirms their passing. The post office will use this information to update their records and ensure that no further mail is sent to the deceased person’s address.
3. Update the Mailbox
After notifying the post office, it’s essential to update the mailbox itself. If the deceased person had a mail flag or a sign indicating that mail should be held, remove it. This will prevent any mail carriers from leaving additional correspondence at the address.
4. Inform Other Agencies
In addition to the USPS, there are other agencies and organizations that may send mail to the deceased person. It’s a good idea to inform these entities as well. This includes credit card companies, banks, utility providers, and any other organizations that may have sent mail to the deceased person. Contact them and provide proof of death to ensure that you no longer receive their correspondence.
5. Consider a Permanent Solution
If you anticipate that the deceased person’s mail will continue to arrive for an extended period, you may want to consider a more permanent solution. You can request that the USPS hold the mail indefinitely or until you decide to collect it. This will prevent any further mail from being delivered to the address.
By following these steps, you can effectively stop receiving deceased person’s mail and focus on healing and moving forward after the loss of a loved one. Remember to keep your emotions in check during this process and seek support from friends, family, or professionals if needed.
