Loss of a loved one

Every estate is unique, and timing depends on complexity and whether probate is required. Don't worry, we'll keep you updated and do everything we can to make the process as smooth as possible.

You can provide documents by sending them in via email or mailing your documents to:

Golden 1 Deposit Account Servicing
P.O. Box 15966, Sacramento, CA 95852
Attn: Member Beneficiary Support

Please include the loved one’s name, account number and/or case number with all submitted documents.

In addition to reaching out to us, you might also need to notify other organizations like utility companies, subscriptions, and government agencies. Although we're here to provide as much information as possible, we recommend you also seek legal and tax advice from qualified professionals.

Unfortunately, some people take advantage of this overwhelming time, obtaining personal information from obituaries, social media, and funeral homes. With this information, people might reach out and claim to be owed money or create fraudulent accounts or take out personal loans in their name. Visit our Member Fraud and Security Center for more details about how to spot scams.

Death certificates are issued by the California Department of Public Health - Vital Records (CDPH-VR) or by the county office where the death was registered. You can request a copy in three ways:

• By Mail: Submit the Application for Certified Copy of Death Record (VS-112).
• In Person: Visit the county office where the death was registered.
• Online: Request electronically through CDPH-approved third-party vendor.
• You may also request directly through funeral home, which commonly assists the family in obtaining initial certified copies.

How many copies should I request?
A common rule of thumb is to request 8-10 certified copies, especially if the estate involves multiple financial institutions, insurance claims, pensions, property transfers, or benefit notifications. 

In California, probate is a legal process that ensures a loved one's wishes are honored and all debts and taxes are handled before assets are shared. If there is no will, a spouse or next-of-kin is usually appointed to manage the estate. Sometimes, an attorney or financial institution can take on this role.

Don't worry if you're unsure about who the executor is. We'll help you understand your role and the steps you need to take.

Notifying us, submitting documents, and answering your questions are all things that can be done without visiting a branch. If something does require in-person verification, we'll let you know and explain why. Our goal is to make things as convenient as possible for you.

Our priority is to protect the account by stopping all payments and withdrawals. Once you let us know about your loss, we'll carefully review the account and may place a temporary hold to keep it secure and ensure proper handling of assets.

A Power of Attorney (POA) automatically ends the moment the person who created it passes away. At that point, the person named as POA can no longer make decisions or complete transactions on the account.