What Happens to Your BMI Account When You Die
Quick Facts
Royalties
Continue for decades after death
Estate
Update payee to estate
Works
Registered compositions
Step-by-Step Guide
Performance royalties continue for decades
BMI performance royalties continue as long as the music is being played publicly. These can generate income for decades.
Update payee to estate or heir
Contact BMI to update the payee information. A death certificate and legal estate documents are required.
Document Now Checklist
- BMI member ID
- Registered works/compositions
- Current quarterly royalty estimate
- Account email
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Start your vault — free for 30 daysLast verified: June 2026. Platform policies may change. Verify current procedures directly with BMI. This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.
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