Inheriting a Vanguard account

We know how hard it can be to lose a loved one. We're here to help at every step and are committed to making the transfer process as seamless as possible.

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Helpful information before starting an inheritance transfer online

Phase 1
Preparing for the transfer

To complete this process online, you must be listed as a beneficiary by name or relationship, or be an executor/administrator for the estate.

Gather what you'll need:

  • Decedent social security number, date of birth, and date of passing.
  • Copy of death certificate (we'll need this if we can't verify the decedent's passing on our end).
  • Estate documents (if applicable).
  • Know the type of account you're inheriting.
  • Check with other beneficiaries (if applicable) to ensure everyone is claiming.
    • Disclaiming beneficiaries should notify Vanguard before any other beneficiaries begin this process. This ensures assets are distributed properly.

If you're unsure how you're listed on the account, need to let Vanguard know you won't be claiming assets, or just prefer to speak with someone over the phone, please call us at 877-662-7447, M-F, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., EST, and mention "change of ownership."

Phase 2
Completing the transfer

During the transfer process, you'll be asked to:

  • Log in (if you're already a Vanguard client) or register with Vanguard by providing some personal information and creating a username and password.
  • Provide information about the person who passed away.
  • Upload supporting documents.
  • Choose where you want the inherited assets to go.

Creating a digital copy of supporting documents
The easiest way to create a digital copy of your documents, if you don’t have one, is to take a picture with your phone, email it to yourself, and save it to your computer as a PDF.

Phase 3
After the transfer

Once you've submitted your request, Vanguard will:

  • Freeze the account of the person who passed away to protect it from unauthorized activity.
  • Process your request and notify you once the transfer is completed.

Remember, for anyone inheriting an IRA, you'll generally be required to take a required minimum distribution.

Helpful information based on who you are

I’m a beneficiary and I’d like to learn more

You’ll find out what to expect as the beneficiary inheriting an account.

Get the specifics

I’m an executor and I’d like to learn more

You’ll find out what to expect as an executor who’s managing the inheritance process.

Get the specifics

Helping you, a spouse, through the IRA inheritance process

Should you assume or inherit the IRA? If you’re a spouse, you have to make a choice between these two options.

Get the specifics

Need help deciding what’s next?

If you’ve recently experienced a loss, our advisors are here to help you create a plan based on your unique financial situation and vision of the future.

Get advice

Need help deciding what’s next?

If you’ve recently experienced a loss, our advisors are here to help you create a plan based on your unique financial situation and vision of the future.

Get advice

Ready to start an inheritance transfer?

Begin now

or call 877-320-4822

Vanguard's advice services are provided by Vanguard Advisers, Inc. ("VAI"), a registered investment advisor, or by Vanguard National Trust Company ("VNTC"), a federally chartered, limited-purpose trust company.

The services provided to clients will vary based upon the service selected, including management, fees, eligibility, and access to an advisor. Find VAI's Form CRS and each program's advisory brochure here for an overview.

VAI and VNTC are subsidiaries of The Vanguard Group, Inc., and affiliates of Vanguard Marketing Corporation. Neither VAI, VNTC, nor its affiliates guarantee profits or protection from losses.