Make two lists before you start calling: Utilities list — electric, gas, water, internet, phone, trash. Subscriptions list — Netflix, Spotify, Amazon Prime, gym membership, magazines, meal kits, any recurring charges.
Pro tip: Go through the last 3 months of bank statements and credit card statements to find every recurring charge. You’ll catch things you didn’t know existed.
Do utilities before subscriptions. Keeping the lights on matters more than canceling Netflix.
Utilities need to be either transferred into your name if you are staying in the home or cancelled if the home is being sold or vacated. Most utility companies have a bereavement process — ask for it specifically if they don’t offer it. Some will waive final fees or prorate the last bill. For subscriptions most can be cancelled by logging into the account online. If you cannot access the account call customer service with a death certificate. Most subscription companies will cancel immediately without requiring a certificate — but have it ready just in case.
Use this when calling electric, gas, water, internet, or phone companies.
Ask for the bereavement process if they don’t offer it. Ask whether any deposits will be refunded.
Use this for streaming services, memberships, and recurring subscriptions.
Some companies will ask for a death certificate. Most won’t. Keep a log of every cancellation with the date and confirmation number.
Electric — cancelled or transferred
Gas — cancelled or transferred
Water — cancelled or transferred
Internet — cancelled or transferred
Phone — cancelled or transferred
Streaming services — cancelled
Gym membership — cancelled
Other subscriptions — cancelled