What Happens to Your ADP Business Account When You Die
Quick Facts
Payroll
Employees depend on this
HR services
May include benefits admin
Contract
Service agreement in place
Tax filings
Automated payroll tax
Step-by-Step Guide
Contact ADP service team immediately
Call ADP directly using the phone number on the account. They have dedicated service representatives who can guide you through the process for a business owner's death. They deal with this regularly.
Estimated time: Day 1
Identify the next payroll date
Log into ADP Run, Workforce Now, or whichever ADP product is in use. Find the next payroll processing deadline. Ensure payroll will be submitted on time.
Estimated time: Day 1
Add an authorized contact
Work with ADP to add a trusted person as an authorized administrator. ADP will require documentation (death certificate, articles of incorporation, etc.).
Estimated time: Day 1-3
Review the full ADP service contract
Find the ADP service agreement. Note the services included — payroll, tax filing, HR, benefits, retirement plans, workers' comp. Each service has implications.
Estimated time: Week 1
Coordinate year-end obligations
ADP handles W-2 preparation, year-end tax filings, and ACA reporting. Ensure the CPA coordinates with ADP to prevent duplicate or missed filings.
Estimated time: Week 2
Document Now Checklist
- ADP login credentials (admin username and password)
- ADP product in use (Run, Workforce Now, TotalSource)
- Company code
- Dedicated ADP rep name and phone number
- Next payroll date
- Number of employees
- Service contract details
Last verified: June 2026. Platform policies may change. Verify current procedures directly with ADP Business. This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.
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