Debt, Credit, and Financial Identity
What happens to my credit score after my spouse dies?
Short answer
Your credit score is individual and not directly affected by your spouse's death. However, if joint accounts are closed, your available credit decreases, which can temporarily affect your score. If your credit history was thin because most accounts were in their name…
What this usually means
Your credit score is individual and not directly affected by your spouse's death. However, if joint accounts are closed, your available credit decreases, which can temporarily affect your score. If your credit history was thin because most accounts were in their name, you may need to build your own credit history.
What to do next
- Start the PathAfter checklist for situation-aware first steps.
- Find California county help for coroner contacts, vital records, cost tools, and paperwork.
- Open the First 72 Hours Call Log before making calls.
- Open the Documents to Find Checklist when you are ready for paperwork.