Important Information for Deceased Member Accounts
EFCU would like to help reduce the difficulty of dealing with the loss of a loved one and the additional burdens that follow. Below is an outline of a few common questions and answers that will help us support you.
Where should I begin?
The first step is to notify us as soon as possible after the death of a loved one. Upon hearing from you, we may request the following information.
- Name of the deceased.
- Date of death.
- Certified copy of the death certificate.
- Name(s) of individual(s) who will be settling the account.
- Estate papers, court-appointed documents, a will or trust papers if part of a trust. An Affidavit of Entitlement may also be used if there are no joint owner(s) or payable on death (POD) beneficiaries on the account.

Am I required to close a deceased member's account?
You are not, as long as the deceased member’s account is not in dormancy status. However, we encourage joint owners, POD payees, and those serving in fiduciary capacities to work toward closing a deceased member account as soon as possible.
- If the deceased person is the primary account holder, all dividends earned in the amount of $10.00 or more will continue to be reported in the decedent’s name and social security number for tax purposes.
- Electing to close the account may limit tax-filing complications.
What steps should I take regarding accounts?
- Cancel direct deposits.
- Cancel pre-authorized drafts.
- Redirect pre-authorized drafts and direct deposits to new accounts.
- Update beneficiary information, under the survivor’s account, if necessary.
- Review account history for recurring electronic withdrawals; action may need to be taken to stop future drafts. Contact the respective companies, if necessary.
- Update official documents, as needed.
Are there any other people or places I should contact?
- Financial Institutions.
- File life insurance claims on loans, mortgages, and credit cards.
- Stockbroker (If there are brokerage accounts to be settled).
- Agencies handling benefits such as: Social Security Administration, Railroad Retirement Board, Veterans Administration, Civil Service, Pension/Retirement plans, etc.
- Utility companies.
- Insurance companies (such as health, home, auto or life).
- Department of Motor Vehicles.
- County Clerk’s Office, in the jurisdiction where the decedent last resided and paid their taxes.