Redirecting Mail to the Post Office When Someone Dies

Redirecting mail to Australia Post

Why does a mail redirect matter?

Mail redirection is about more than just parcel post and personal mail. Whilst these might not matter when someone dies, the bills and debts mail which may come through (unfortunately) do.

Things like a utility bill or insurance payment do not automatically stop when someone dies, and as an executor or administrator, it could be your responsibility to notify selected providers.

Assuming you don't reside at the deceased person's mailing address, you will need to organise an Australia Post mail redirection to receive these important letters.

As well as paying outstanding bills, this will also allow you to shut down utilities and start the long-process of administering the deceased estate.

Failing to redirect this personal mail could extend your service as executor; assuming you miss important mail with details on debts and paid services.

How mail redirection works with Australia Post

Redirecting someone's mail after they die must be done in person at an Australia Post office. In order to lodge the redirection service application you must fill out the completed mail redirection application form (this can also be picked up at the post office itself).

You must then provide id, as well as a copy of the grant or probate or letter of administration to prove you are the person responsible for administering the deceased estate.

This written authority to prove your relation to the deceased will then be used to activate the mail redirection service, and ensure you receive any business or personal mail which is re-addressed.

How much does a mail redirection service cost?

Australia Post offers a free mail redirection service for 12 months for someone dealing with a deceased estate.

To access the service you must be the executor of the Will, the Administrator of the Estate or a family member, if the person died without a Will (dying intestate).

If you want the service to continue after this 12 month period you will have to start paying monthly fees to redirect mail. This costs $33/a month or $19.80 for a concession card holder.

Can a Power of Attorney redirect mail?

Yes. If you have been appointed as someone's financial Power of Attorney it is within your right to receive mail items, and organise a redirection service for them.

As you are acting on their behalf, mail redirection is part of being responsible for their financial and business affairs.

As well as redirect mail, a Power of Attorney is also able to open someone else's mail, pay their bills and open up and close bank accounts under the individual's name.

You will need to show your Power of Attorney document and proof of identity to the post office, in order to be able to authorise a mail redirection service.

To find out more about the duties and responsibilities of a financial Power of Attorney you can read our blog post on the subject.

To Wrap Up

For some, receiving mail for a dead person might seem a bit weird, or upsetting or even unnecessary at a time of grief.

Whilst this might be the case, Australia post mail redirection is also an important part of administering a deceased estate and fulfilling executor roles- keeping in mind the importance of paying off debts or receiving personal payouts.

You can redirect mail through the Australia Post Office, and ensure you don't miss these important pieces of financial, business or personal mail.

Apply online with your forwarding address, or opt to extend this service with a mail redirection fee after 12 months. The application form is relatively simple, and requires your'e personal details as well as proof of executor or administrator position.

How Safewill Can Help

Safewill provides the most affordable legal service to write your Will, or receive legal support on probate or letters of administration.

From questions on mail redirection service, to paperwork, court proceedings and estate proceedings- our team of specialist lawyers are here to help.

Reach out today on 1800 103 310 , or via live chat now, to find out more and get started today.