How to find someone's assets after death?

How to find someone's assets after death?

When someone dies, it is up to their family to locate all the assets that they left behind. Although this task usually falls to the person who will ultimately be the executor of the Will, having a few family members tackle this project together can make it mentally and emotionally easier.

Assets include things like bank accounts, savings and pensions, as well as property, household goods and personal items. You will also need to look at any debts outstanding which could include things like utility bills, mortgages and money owed on credit cards.

Sometimes, these assets may be listed in your loved one’s Will. However, many Wills simply reveal how the value of the estate will be divided, or only list a few selected items that your loved one wanted specific people to have. Or there may not be a Will at all. In any of these cases, you and your family will have to identify the assets yourselves.

Where to look for assets

• Check for assets within your loved one's financial records and tax returns, either in their desk or their computer files.
• Contact banks, pension and insurance companies to find out more information about assets your loved one may have kept with them.
• Contact your loved one's most recent and former employers to locate any insurance policies, retirement plans which they may have paid, as well as any wages that may be owed.
• Contact any companies they held shares in - include the number of shares, company details and the share certificate number (if you have it).
• National Savings and Investments (NS&I) for Premium Bonds - use the free tracing service if you cannot find certificates.
• Contact other organisations that hold assets like ISAs, shares, investments or assets in a trust.

For further information on Ward Williams Services and/or advice on Probate or Wills please contact Dipesh Parmar on 01932 830664 or Dipesh.parmar@wardwilliams.co.uk