Handling a loved one’s credit report after they pass away
Sorting practical things can feel a lot, so here’s a gentle guide to what you can do next.
If you need to view their credit report
For privacy and security, we can’t give access to someone’s ClearScore account—even if you hold a grant of probate or letters of administration.
Instead, the best place to view a loved one’s credit file is directly with the credit reference agencies (CRAs). You can request their statutory credit report from each CRA and ask them to add a ‘Deceased’ flag.
A ‘Deceased’ flag helps prevent identity fraud and signals to organisations not to open new credit in their name.
What you’ll usually need
• A copy of the death certificate
• Proof you’re authorised to act (e.g. grant of probate or letters of administration)
• Their full name, date of birth and last known addresses
Where to request the statutory credit report / add the ‘Deceased’ flag
Equifax
TransUnion
Experian
Tip: each CRA manages its own file, so it’s sensible to contact all three.
Extra steps that can help
• Reduce unwanted post & fraud risk: You can register with the Deceased Preference Service (free) and/or The Bereavement Register to remove their details from marketing lists.
• Tell Us Once (where available): GOV.UK’s service can notify multiple government departments in one go, which can save time.
Closing a ClearScore account
To close a ClearScore account for someone who’s passed away, click the messenger icon in the bottom-right corner to contact us.
Let us know it’s about a bereavement and we’ll explain what we need and guide you through it. We’ll keep it as simple as possible.