What To Know
- In both mail and in-person submissions, include a cover letter that clearly states the deceased’s name, date of birth, date of death, and passport number.
- Notifying the passport office of a death is an important step in the bereavement process.
- Can I get a copy of the deceased’s passport after it has been invalidated.
Losing a loved one is a deeply emotional and challenging time. Amidst the grief and sorrow, there are practical matters that need to be addressed, including notifying the relevant authorities. One such responsibility is informing the passport office of the deceased’s passing.
Understanding the Importance of Notification
The passport office maintains records of all issued passports. When an individual passes away, it’s crucial to notify the office to prevent potential identity theft or misuse of the document. By doing so, the passport will be marked as invalid and will not be accepted for travel or other purposes.
How to Notify the Passport Office of a Death
1. Gather Required Documents:
- Death certificate
- Deceased’s passport
- Your original identification (e.g., driver’s license, passport)
2. Determine the Appropriate Method:
There are two ways to notify the passport office:
- Mail: Send the required documents to the following address:
National Passport Processing Center
PO Box 90955
Philadelphia, PA 19190-0955
- In-Person: Visit a passport acceptance facility and submit the documents in person.
3. Complete the Notification Form:
If notifying by mail, you must complete Form DS-5504, “Statement Regarding a Lost or Stolen Passport.” In the “Reason for Application” section, indicate that you are reporting the death of the passport holder.
4. Include a Cover Letter:
In both mail and in-person submissions, include a cover letter that clearly states the deceased’s name, date of birth, date of death, and passport number.
5. Return the Passport:
The deceased’s passport must be returned to the passport office. If the passport is not available, you must provide an explanation in the cover letter.
Additional Considerations
- Notify Other Relevant Authorities: It’s also important to notify other relevant authorities, such as the Social Security Administration and the deceased’s financial institutions.
- Be Patient: Processing times may vary depending on the volume of applications.
- Contact the Consulate or Embassy Abroad: If the deceased passed away overseas, contact the nearest U.S. consulate or embassy for assistance.
What Happens After Notification
Once the passport office receives your notification, the deceased’s passport will be marked as invalid. The passport will be canceled and will no longer be valid for travel.
Wrapping Up
Notifying the passport office of a death is an important step in the bereavement process. By following these steps and providing the necessary information, you can ensure that the deceased’s passport is invalidated and prevent potential misuse. Remember to be patient and contact the appropriate authorities for additional assistance as needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I notify the passport office electronically?
A: No, electronic notifications are not accepted. You must notify the office by mail or in person.
Q: What if I don’t have the deceased’s passport?
A: Provide an explanation in the cover letter and submit the other required documents.
Q: What if the deceased had multiple passports?
A: Notify the passport office of all known passport numbers and return all available passports.
Q: How long does it take to process the notification?
A: Processing times vary, but it typically takes several weeks.
Q: Can I get a copy of the deceased’s passport after it has been invalidated?
A: No, once a passport is invalidated, it is not possible to obtain a copy.
