Can I Cancel a Deceased Person's Cell Phone, Internet and Subscription Accounts in British Columbia?

This answer covers the law of British Columbia.

Usually yes, if you are the executor or administrator, although each company sets its own paperwork. A personal representative has the same authority over the estate as the deceased would have if living, subject to the will and any enactment, and this covers accounts held by third parties, whose terms of service may still apply. The Province lists cancelling subscriptions and charge cards among an executor's duties.

What a provider asks for varies. Institutions set their own rules on whether probate is needed first; some require a grant of probate and others do not. The Province notes that some services require a certified copy of the death certificate. A death certificate costs $27 by mail or $60 by courier. Phone, internet, streaming and gym companies may each want different documents, so confirm with each provider before you send anything.

If there is no will, a person can apply to handle the estate as administrator. Keep a written list of every account you cancel and every balance owed. Executors and administrators may be held personally liable for valid estate debts that remain unpaid after the estate is distributed, so ask each company in writing for any final amount before you distribute.