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What happens to myGov, Centrelink and the ATO after someone dies

You don't need to close a deceased person's myGov account, and you shouldn't log in to it. myGov closes inactive accounts automatically, and its terms prohibit accessing another person's account. (myGov) What you do need to do is tell the agencies behind it: Services Australia (Centrelink, Medicare and Child Support) and the ATO.

Last changed: 19 October 2026

Services Australia: Centrelink, Medicare, Child Support

Services Australia asks to be told within 28 days of the death. (Services Australia) You can:

• call 132 300 and say someone has died
• complete and submit the Advice of death form
• visit a service centre
• use the Australian Death Notification Service

One notification updates their Centrelink and Medicare records. If the person was part of a child support arrangement, also tell Child Support directly. You don't need to close their Medicare or Centrelink online accounts separately.

If you were their partner or carer, ask about bereavement payments. A partner or carer may be eligible for ongoing or lump-sum payments for a period after the death.

Want this done for you? See the Guided Inventory ↓

The ATO

Tell the ATO by phoning 13 28 61 or using its online or paper notification form, so it stops sending correspondence to the deceased. (ATO checklist)

The executor or administrator then has some tax jobs:

1. Become the authorised legal personal representative (LPR). The ATO needs a grant of probate or letters of administration before it gives full access to the deceased's tax and super records. Family members who aren't the LPR can get only limited help.
2. Get the deceased's records. The LPR can request a data package of tax and super information for the past three income years, plus specifics like their tax file number. (ATO)
3. Lodge a date of death tax return if needed. This covers income from 1 July up to the date of death.
4. Lodge trust tax returns for the estate if it earns income, such as interest or rent, while being wound up.

The LPR is liable for any outstanding tax debts of the deceased, but only up to the value of the estate's assets.

Any tax agent the person used must be reappointed by the LPR. Their authority ends at death. (ATO)

Other government contacts

• Australian Electoral Commission: 13 23 26
• Department of Veterans' Affairs: 1800 VETERAN (1800 838 372), if relevant

What you'll usually need

• Death certificate
• Their Centrelink or customer reference number, Medicare number and tax file number, if you can find them
• Grant of probate or letters of administration (for the ATO)

This guide is general information only, not legal, financial or tax advice. Providers change their processes, so always confirm the current steps on the linked official page. For advice on a specific estate, speak with a solicitor, accountant or licensed financial adviser.