Taylor, MI asked in Estate Planning and Probate for Michigan

Q: In Michigan, may the spouse have the deceased spouse's mail forwarded?

Spouses were living separately. Can the wife have her deceased spouse's mail forwarded to her home?

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1 Lawyer Answer
James L. Arrasmith
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  • Estate Planning Lawyer
  • Sacramento, CA

A: In Michigan, as in most states, the process of handling a deceased person's mail is governed by specific legal and postal regulations. As a spouse, you have certain rights, but these need to be navigated carefully, especially if you were living separately at the time of your spouse's passing.

To have your deceased spouse's mail forwarded to your home, you would typically need to provide the postal service with appropriate documentation. This might include a copy of the death certificate and documentation proving your authority to manage the deceased's affairs, such as a letter of administration or similar legal document.

It's important to remember that mail forwarding in the context of a deceased individual is not always straightforward. There might be specific legal considerations, particularly if there is a will, an estate plan, or if there are other parties involved, such as executors or beneficiaries.

Consulting with an attorney can provide you with guidance on how to proceed. They can help ensure that you are taking the right steps in accordance with both state law and postal regulations.

Remember, handling the affairs of a deceased spouse can be complex, particularly when it comes to legal and administrative matters. Seeking professional advice can help you navigate these challenges effectively and in accordance with the law.

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