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Closing Accounts for a Deceased Loved One

Helping you navigate loss

Our dedicated team at Tyndall is here to help during the difficult time that comes after a loss. We understand that navigating all of the paperwork and processes involved can be challenging so we will help walk you through gathering the necessary documents needed to complete closing the accounts of your loved ones.

Adding designated beneficiaries to an account before someone passes is highly recommended to help ensure that your assets are passed on according to your wishes. If you or your living loved ones do not currently have beneficiaries listed on your accounts, you can do so by completing this form.

If your deceased loved one has a Mortgage or Home Equity loan, a Successor in Interest form may be needed. A Successor in Interest is someone who can make payments and get information on the loan, but they are not responsible for the loan.

Documents You May Need to Complete the Process of Closing a Deceased Member's Account

  • Basic Information - such as name, address, phone number
  • Death Certificate
  • Government Issued Picture ID - such as a Driver's License or Passport
  • Court Order or Certificate of Trust
  • Successor in Interest Form

Deceased Account Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if a loved one has passed away?

Notify Tyndall as soon as possible. Provide the name of your loved one, account number (if available), and the date of passing. You can notify us before the death certificate is obtained, so we can provide the next steps to maintain your loved one's account.

What documentation is required to process a deceased loved one's account?

Usually, the original or a certified copy of the death certificate is needed. If you are an executor or next of kin, you may also need to provide identification and legal documentation, such as a certified copy of the Letters of Administration, Informal Order, or Summary Administration.

What happens to the deceased’s accounts?

Once notified and after verification, the accounts are frozen to prevent unauthorized transactions. Funds are distributed according to account ownership (e.g., joint ownership, payable-on-death beneficiaries) or by instructions from the estate’s legal representative.

I am a joint owner on a deceased loved one's account. Can I still access the account?

If you are a joint owner, you typically retain full access to the account. However, once the account is maintained (with proper documents), we can update our records, and the account may be re-titled in your name.

Are Automatic Payments or Direct Deposits affected?

Yes. All Direct Deposits should be reviewed. Direct Deposits (such as Social Security payments) should be stopped and may need to be returned, depending on the date received relative to the date of death.

How are loans or credit cards handled after passing?

Any outstanding loans or credit cards under the deceased member’s name become part of the estate. The estate is responsible for paying them off. If there are co-signers or joint owners, they may become fully responsible. Any available funds will be applied to the outstanding debt. 

Can I get information about a deceased loved one’s accounts?

Only individuals with legal authority, such as an executor or administrator of the estate, can access detailed account information.

How long does it take to remove a deceased loved one from an account and/or to close their membership?

It depends on the complexity of the estate and the documentation provided. The process may take a few days to several weeks.

Who should I contact for more information or assistance?

You can fill out a request form or call us at 850-769-9999 for guidance.

What happens to account dividends or interest after the member's death?

Dividends or interest earned before the date of death will be included in the estate. Earnings after the date of death may also be included until the account is closed or transferred.

If a Social Security deposit was returned in error, how can the estate request to receive those funds back?

If a Social Security payment was returned in error after the member's passing, the estate or beneficiaries must contact the Social Security Administration (SSA) directly. We cannot reclaim or reissue these funds on your behalf. The executor or next of kin should:
  • Call the Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213 or
  • Visit your local SSA office.

What happens if your deceased loved one had a safety deposit box?

Tyndall does not have any safety deposit boxes as of January 2018. Any safety deposit box before January 2018 would have been serviced by the account owner at that time.

How are minor beneficiaries handled if named on an account?

If a minor is named as a beneficiary, funds may be held in trust or released to a court-appointed guardian, depending on state laws and credit union policy.

What if the deceased member did not leave a Will?

If there is no Will (the estate is “intestate”), state laws will determine how assets are distributed. The court will appoint an administrator to handle the estate, and we will release funds according to legal instructions provided by the court.

Can I make payments on a deceased loved one’s loan or mortgage?

Yes. However, we won’t be able to provide the payment amount unless you have been named as the executor or personal representative of the member’s estate. For mortgages and other real estate loans, you may apply to become the Successor in Interest on the loan.