One critical step after losing a loved one is canceling their active subscriptions, such as energy providers, internet, pay-TV, and more. These aren't always urgent but continue billing until terminated. We recommend handling them within the first month—or at most six months—to avoid unnecessary charges.
In the wake of a loved one's passing, grief often accompanies essential administrative tasks. Urgent actions within the first week include obtaining the death certificate, registering it at the town hall, and arranging the funeral.
Within the following month, address bills from the deceased's bank account, notify social services and insurance, inform the landlord if renting, settle the estate, contact tax authorities, update vehicle registration documents, and more.
Also prioritize identifying and canceling subscriptions—ideally within a month, up to six months max. These include electricity/gas suppliers, magazines, fixed/mobile phone, internet access, pay-TV, gym/sports memberships, public transport like SNCF, and others.
With digital services booming, review social media and website accounts for deletion as well.
Spot paid subscriptions easily by reviewing bank statements for recurring monthly, quarterly, or annual debits.
Free subscriptions, like website newsletters, are harder to track. Access the deceased's computer and email accounts to uncover them.
The full list is extensive, so here are proven steps for the most common ones, drawn from real-world estate administration experience. Cancellations typically process within 10 days of your request.
If accessible, log into the deceased's online personal space. Otherwise, call or send a registered letter with acknowledgment of receipt. Include desired termination date, your identity, deceased's details, meter readings, Delivery Point number (PDL) or contract number, and a copy of the death certificate.
For Orange internet/mobile plans, submit the "Request for termination of offer following the death of the holder" form on their website—no fees apply. Provide your identity, address, deceased's full name and phone number, death date, plus copies of your ID and death certificate. Return any equipment like a modem.
SFR follows similar steps but also requires a family record book copy.
Many channels like Canal+ require subscriptions. Send a registered letter with acknowledgment of receipt, including death certificate, deceased's contact details, and subscriber number.
Most people have accounts on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter—treat them as digital subscriptions. For Facebook, use their dedicated form: provide your details, deceased's profile name and URL, and associated email—no login needed. Attach death certificate if required.
Twitter offers a support center form requiring similar info, including the death certificate.
For monthly SNCF passes, send a registered letter to customer service before the subscription start date, with death certificate. No refunds normally, but pro-rata possible for death cases if unused period exceeds seven days.
