The only question I can definitely say I have been asked in every estate administration consultation is, "how do I find out what assets the decedent had? Is there a central database you can put their social security number into?" The answer to the first question is, you go through their home and you get their mail forwarded to your house. Typically, between going through what they saved and receiving their mail, you can figure out what accounts they had. However, it is common for executors or estate administrators to encounter missing or undisclosed assets. These can range from forgotten bank accounts to overlooked investments or real estate holdings. Locating these assets is essential to fulfilling the deceased’s wishes and ensuring a smooth probate process. If you were wondering what the answer is to the central database question, unfortunately the answer is, that is a brilliant idea, I hope it is created soon, but as of now, it does not exist.

Why Assets Go Missing

Missing assets often result from a lack of organization or documentation during the deceased’s lifetime. Individuals may have sometimes failed to update their records after acquiring new assets. Others may have intentionally kept certain holdings private or hidden. Digital assets, such as cryptocurrency or online accounts, can be easily overlooked if no record exists.

Missing assets can also stem from outdated beneficiary designations, closed accounts, or property acquired under different names. Executors must remain diligent and methodical to uncover these resources.

Steps to Locate Missing Assets

1.   Review Personal Records

Begin by thoroughly reviewing the deceased’s documents. Tax returns, bank statements and insurance policies often reveal the existence of accounts or properties that require further investigation. Look for recurring payments, dividends, or interest income, which may point to assets, such as investments or savings accounts.

Correspondence, such as emails, letters, or physical mail, can also provide valuable clues. Notices from financial institutions, property tax bills, or statements from investment firms may lead you to assets that were not initially disclosed.

2.   Search Public Records

Public records are an invaluable resource for identifying real estate and other registered property. County or municipal offices often maintain records of deeds, mortgages and tax assessments. Searching these databases can uncover properties owned by the deceased that were not listed in their estate documents.

Unclaimed property databases can also be used to search for forgotten bank accounts, stocks, or uncashed checks. Many states maintain searchable online registries for unclaimed funds, often accessible for free.

3.   Investigate Digital Footprints

With the rise of online banking, digital assets can easily go unnoticed. Review the deceased’s computer, phone and email accounts for clues about digital wallets, cryptocurrency, or online investment platforms. Social media accounts and cloud storage services may also contain records of valuable digital assets.

Be sure to look for password managers or written login credentials, as these can grant access to encrypted accounts. Consulting with a tech-savvy professional or cybersecurity expert may help if access to these accounts is challenging.

4.   Communicate with Financial Institutions

Contact banks, credit unions and investment firms where the deceased held accounts. Provide proof of your role as executor or administrator, such as letters testamentary, to gain access to account information. Financial institutions can often provide a complete list of accounts associated with the deceased, including dormant or inactive ones.

5.   Consult Known Associates

Speak with family members, friends and professional advisors who were close to the deceased. Attorneys, accountants, or financial planners may have insight into undisclosed assets or ongoing financial obligations. Heirs and beneficiaries may also have knowledge of items or accounts the deceased valued but did not document.

Challenges in Recovering Missing Assets

Locating missing assets can be time-consuming, especially when dealing with complex estates. Some assets may be tied up in legal disputes or require additional documentation to confirm ownership. Executors must stay organized and persistent, keeping detailed records of their efforts.

In cases where assets are hidden intentionally or unintentionally, hiring a forensic accountant or private investigator may be necessary to uncover the full scope of the estate.

Legal Obligations of Executors

As the estate administrator, you have a fiduciary duty to locate and safeguard all assets belonging to the estate. Failure to do so can result in legal liabilities, disputes among beneficiaries, or delays in the probate process. A comprehensive search not only protects you legally but also ensures that the estate is settled equitably and transparently.

Avoiding Missing Assets in the Future

Encourage loved ones to maintain organized financial records and update their estate plans regularly. Comprehensive documentation of assets, passwords and account details can prevent future confusion and reduce the burden on executors. Estate planning attorneys often provide tools, such as asset inventories, to help individuals track their holdings effectively.

Bringing Closure to the Estate

Finding missing assets is more than a financial task—it’s a way to honor the deceased’s legacy and fulfill their final wishes. By remaining diligent and methodical, you can ensure that all property is accounted for and distributed fairly among beneficiaries. Schedule a consultation with our law firm for skilled, compassionate guidance through estate administration and probate.

Key Takeaways

• Causes of Missing Assets: Assets often go missing due to poor documentation, forgotten accounts, or hidden digital resources.
• Know Where to Look: Reviewing personal records, public databases and digital accounts can help uncover overlooked assets.
• Your Responsibility as an Executor: Executors have a fiduciary duty to locate and safeguard all estate assets, ensuring equitable distribution.
• Use the Tools Available: Public records, unclaimed property databases and financial institutions are valuable tools for asset recovery.
• Act Preemptively, if Possible: Encouraging better financial organization can prevent future issues with estate administration.

Reference: The Wall Street Journal (June 29, 2024) “Grief, Then Paperwork: The Messy, Thankless Job of an Estate Executor”