Authority notifications after a death Austria: who must be informed?
<p>Which authorities must be informed in Austria after a death, and in what order? This guide gives a compact view of obligations, deadlines and documents, from the registry to the tax office. The <a href="/app" class="text-primary underline">Wegbegleiter App</a> provides template letters and tracks replies.</p>
Registry and death certificate
The first point of contact in Austria is the registry office (Standesamt). You report the death within 1 working day and request death certificates – order 8-10 originals because almost every other office demands its own copy. The funeral director usually handles this on behalf of the family.
Tax office, bank, landlord, employer
The tax office prepares the final income-tax return; large estates require an inheritance-tax return. Banks freeze accounts until heirs are determined – powers of attorney valid beyond death remain effective. Landlord and employer must be notified promptly; a one-month special notice right often applies.
Utilities, contracts, subscriptions
Electricity, gas, water, internet, mobile, broadcasting fee, insurance, clubs, streaming and press are cancelled or transferred within the first 4–6 weeks. The Wegbegleiter App provides in Austria a complete recipient list and template letters.
Frequently asked questions
- How many death certificates do I need?
- At least 8 to 10 – bank, pension, insurers, authorities, court and landlord each require an original.
- What is the registry deadline?
- Within 1 working day.
- Are accounts frozen immediately?
- Yes, as soon as the bank is informed – powers of attorney valid beyond death remain effective.
- Who informs the tax office?
- Normally the registry, automatically; the final tax return is up to the heirs.
Wegbegleiter – the app for difficult moments
Checklists, letter templates and an encrypted emergency folder – free to start.