Discover Card Help Center

Closing a Deceased Cardmember's Account

How to close the card account of a loved one who has passed away.
Call 1-800-DISCOVER (1-800-347-2683)
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  • How do I notify Discover card when a card member I know has passed away?

    Our Deceased Account Services Specialists will work with you to finalize the account. They can be reached directly at 1-800-347-5519. We understand this may be a very difficult time for you. We want you to know that our priority is to assist you in any way we can. Discover’s Deceased Account Services department handles the processing of an account upon notification that one of our valued customers has passed away. We are committed to managing the process with the utmost sensitivity and care, and are here to assist you with your questions and needs.

  • Do I need to send Discover a death certificate?

    No, upon notification, Discover card will verify the information. If the card member had a death benefit the insurance claim processor may require the death certificate to process the claim.

  • What should I do with their card?

    The card is no longer active and should be shredded or cut up and properly disposed.

  • How can I keep using the card?

    If you are jointly responsible for the account, your card is still active and your name will be the primary name on the account.

  • What happens to the other cards on the account?

    If you are an authorized user on the account, your cards are no longer active and should be shredded or cut up and properly disposed.

  • How do I stop new charges?

    Upon notification, the card is no longer active. This prevents most new charges. If there were previous recurring charges, you need to contact the merchant to stop these charges. Their contact information is normally found on the itemized statement.

  • I want to resolve the account balance. As the administrator or executor of the estate, how do I make a payment?

    If you are the administrator or executor of the estate, you can make a payment by:

    • Calling a Deceased Account Services representative at 1-800-347-5519
    • Sending the payment stub included with the statement in the enclosed envelope.

    Please remember to include the account number.

    If you are not jointly responsible for the account, please note that we are only seeking payment from the deceased cardmember's estate and you are not required to use your individual assets or assets owned jointly with the deceased cardmember to pay the account.

  • What does probate mean?

    Probate is the common legal term for the handling of a decedent's affairs. Probate laws vary from state to state. You should contact an attorney or probate court for more information.

  • What does the term estate mean?

    You may hear the term estate used as you handle the affairs of your loved one. Estate refers to the assets and liabilities left by someone upon their passing.

  • What is an executor?

    An executor is someone who is appointed by a will or a court to resolve the financial affairs of the estate.

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