What Happens to the Utilities When Someone Dies?

Published on 28 May 2025 at 22:11

A Simple Guide for a Complicated Time

When someone passes away, the last thing anyone wants to deal with is paperwork — especially things like electric bills and water service. But utilities don’t just shut off automatically when someone dies, and leaving them unattended can cause unnecessary headaches. Whether you’re a family member, friend, or chosen support person, here’s a guide to help you navigate changing over utility accounts after a death.

Step 1: Gather What You’ll Need

Before contacting any utility providers, try to collect the following:

  • A certified copy of the death certificate

  • Proof of your legal authority (e.g., executor papers, letters of administration, or power of attorney that was still valid at time of death)

  • The deceased’s account numbers or recent bills

  • Your identification

Pro Tip: If you’re unsure whether you have legal authority, call the utility company and ask what they require to update or close the account. Most will provide guidance.

Step 2: Make a List of the Utilities

Here’s a helpful starting list — though not every household will use all of these:

  • Electric/Gas

  • Water/Sewer

  • Trash Pickup

  • Internet

  • Cable/Streaming Services

  • Phone (Landline and/or Cell)

  • Home Security

  • Propane/Oil Delivery (if applicable)

Include both essential and non-essential services. If you’re unsure what was in the person’s name, check mail, emails, or online bank statements for billing notices.

Step 3: Decide What to Keep, Cancel, or Transfer

Think about whether someone is still living in the home (even temporarily), and what needs to stay on. Common scenarios:

  • House is unoccupied but being sold: Keep basics like electric, water, and trash to prevent damage or fines.

  • Someone is living there: Transfer accounts to that person or into the estate’s name.

  • No one is staying: Cancel non-essential services like internet or cable.

Step 4: Contact Each Utility

Once you know what to do, start calling or logging into each company’s customer service portal. When speaking to a representative, you’ll usually need to:

  • Explain the account holder has died

  • Provide a death certificate (scanned or mailed)

  • State your relationship and authority

  • Request either a transfer or termination of service

Some providers allow online submission of documents. Others may require in-person visits, especially in smaller municipalities or co-ops.

Step 5: Keep Track

It helps to create a simple chart or folder:

  • Note the company name, account number, who you spoke with, and what was done

  • Keep copies of any confirmation numbers or emails

This makes it much easier to prove something was handled correctly, especially if bills show up later.

Bonus Tips:

  • Mail Forwarding: Notify USPS of the death so you can receive any bills or important notices.

  • Auto-Pay Alert: Cancel any automatic payments from a closed or frozen account to prevent overdrafts.

  • Estate Account: Consider opening an estate checking account if bills must continue to be paid temporarily.

You Don’t Have to Do This Alone

SCRIPTed is here to help people navigate end-of-life logistics with clarity and compassion. If you're supporting someone through this process — or planning ahead for your own peace of mind — reach out. Our Cue Cards, Journey Books, and community network are built to guide you through exactly these kinds of moments