Loss of a Loved One

We are here to help you through a difficult time

Wright-Patt Credit Union® (WPCU®) is committed to helping family members successfully handle the financial considerations of the loss of a loved one. Our goal is to make the situation as easy as possible for those left behind.

  • Start the process

    Be sure to take the time you need to make financial decisions that may be emotionally difficult. We are here to help when you are ready to start.

  • Financial Considerations Following the Death of a Loved One

    If your loved one was a Wright-Patt Credit Union member, here’s where you start to resolve their finances:

  • Now It’s Your Turn to Be Prepared

    You can make financial matters a little easier for your surviving family members to navigate with these 5 steps to prepare ahead of time:

Start the process

Be sure to take the time you need to make financial decisions that may be emotionally difficult. We are here to help when you are ready to start.
  • Consider the immediate financial needs that need to be taken care of while matters are addressed. 
  • Gather your loved one's financial documents, including their letter of last instruction (this provides details regarding the family members’ final wishes).
  • Notify family and close friends first. Next, notify financial institutions and businesses. 
    • It’s important to understand that accounts may be frozen once this occurs. 
  • Seek the help of professional advisors to review estate and Will plans.

  • Notify Social Security (if applicable) – this helps to close out the loved one’s accounts and avoid fraud in their passing. 
  • Create a new budget – with the passing of a loved one, there may be lifestyle and budget changes. You will want to take a look at what new expenses you may incur, or which ones may be stopping as a part of your transition. 
  • If you are the surviving spouse, you will want to think about what “tomorrow” looks like now. You may want to review your retirement financial options with WPCU’s Retirement Solutions team of experts.

Financial Considerations Following the Death of a Loved One

If your loved one was a Wright-Patt Credit Union member, here’s where you start to resolve their finances:

Our Special Services department is specifically here to help you during this difficult time. Start here and they will help you understand the next steps for the careful handling of your loved one’s Wright-Patt Credit Union accounts and assets.

We want to make it easy for you to take care of your loved one’s financial affairs with us. Contact us and ask our Special Services department when you feel ready to move forward.

Now It’s Your Turn to Be Prepared

You can make financial matters a little easier for your surviving family members to navigate with these 5 steps to prepare ahead of time:
  1. Name your beneficiaries. Beneficiaries can be added to all financial accounts and assets and will automatically receive your assets when you pass. Trusts can also be set up—speak to a lawyer and/or accountant.
  2. Organize Personal and Financial Records. Give family members a binder that includes personal, medical, financial, account and beneficiary details. Wills, Estate and Trust details should be in here as well. 
    1. To ensure safety, take advantage of a WPCU Safety Deposit Box for members. See Member Benefits section for details.
    2.  Use our End of Life Planning checklist to help. 
  3. Create a living Will. A Will protects your wishes and your family’s best interests.  You can also consider an estate plan.
  1. Ensure you have adequate life insurance. Seven to 10 times your annual household expense is the rule of thumb, but that will differ based on age, lifestyle, children, etc. 
  2. Talk about it! Planning for life after you’ve passed can be uncomfortable, but it will ensure peace of mind for your family during a difficult time.  

Stop by your local Member Center today to meet with one of our financial coaches who can help make it easier for you to make the most of your hard-earned money.  

Feel more secure about handling your loved one’s finances with WPCU’s free financial education resources


  • Financial Learning Center

    There is a wealth of free financial learning seminars, webinars, online resources and more at the WPCU Financial Learning Center.

  • Budget Worksheets

    Start a budget and create a monthly spending plan with our easy-to-use financial worksheets.

  • Brochures/Documents

    Learn more about the products, services and resources available from Wright-Patt Credit Union that can help you on your Financial Flexibility and Freedom® journey.

  • Financial Calculators

    Use our financial calculators to estimate monthly payments, refinance needs, estimated savings and more.

  • Fraud Education and Prevention

    Protect your hard-earned money against financial fraud. Learn what you can do and what we do to safeguard you.

  • Financial Flex Snapshot

    Take 2 minutes to answer 8 questions and receive a snapshot of what's going well with your money and opportunities to improve your Financial Flexibility and Freedom® journey!