How to Find a Safety Deposit Box When a Loved One Dies
When someone close to us dies, the grief process is often interrupted by a complex list of things that have to be done, from funeral arrangements to will-readings, even deciding what to wear to the memorial service. Among the most challenging of these tasks is finding a safety deposit box that the deceased may not have told anyone exists or may not have left documentation for. This is important if you are a beneficiary or executor of the estate.
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Instructions
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Contact friends or loved ones who might be aware of the deceased's plans. The deceased may have given authorization to someone else to access the safety deposit box. If so, that person can let you know which bank holds it, and possibly the nature of the contents if you are entitled to have this information.
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Contact the deceased's bank and speak with an officer. A beneficiary has the right to ask bank personnel to review the contents of the box for a will or other documentation regarding the deceased's burial and possessions. The bank officer will review the contents in the presence of the beneficiary or executor and notify him or her if these specific items are found. The bank officer will immediately turn a will over to the probate court, while any burial instructions will be turned over to the beneficiary.
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Call the American Safe Depository Association. They can provide you with a comprehensive list of member banks in your area. This will help your search if you are unable to track down the box on your own.
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