The update can take up to 30 days after the required documentation is received. The new account owner will receive notification of the update via mail.
Losing a loved one is extremely difficult, but we are here to help.
Follow these steps to begin the transfer of ownership to the designated survivor:
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1
Gather information
You will need to provide some basic information about the account owner and a copy of their death certificate. A copy of a government issued ID, Social Security Card or other personal documents may be requested for the designated survivor.
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2
Complete the appropriate paperwork
In most cases, you will need to submit the Transfer Account Upon the Death of an Account Owner form. If the account was set up as a Trust, you will need to submit the Report Death of a Trustee form.
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3
Notify Virginia529
When you’re ready, let us know. Our dedicated team of associates are ready to help you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Please send a copy of the Account Owner’s death certificate and complete as much of the information on the form as you know.
If an Account does not have a valid Designated Survivor at the time of the Account Owner’s death, Virginia529 reserves the right to designate the current Beneficiary of the Account as the new Account Owner. If the current Beneficiary is under the age of 18, Virginia529 may designate the deceased Account Owner’s executor or administrator, if any, as the custodian under the appropriate UTMA/UGMA statute for the current Beneficiary until the current Beneficiary reaches the age of 18. If no executor or administrator was named or appointed, Virginia529, in its sole discretion, may designate a parent of the current Beneficiary or other third party as
the custodian.
When you are ready, submit the appropriate form:
Transfer Account Upon Death of an Account Owner
Report the death of an account owner and request a transfer of the account to another individual
Download (PDF)
Report Death of a Trustee
Report the death of a trustee and request an update of the account to the successor trustee (used in the case of an account held in trust)