The worst thing that can ever happen to your family is a member passing away no matter what age they may be. Whether it is sudden or expected it will resonate for years and can have devastating effects on those left behind.
In the early days you may not feel like tackling the job of getting something as trivial as the financial affairs in order but ignoring this can quickly escalate and add to the already considerable pressure experienced. Simply put, there is never a good time.
You may have life insurance claims to make or have a pension that will provide death benefits, the claims process can be tricky and many providers may require grant of probate or letters of administration in order to release any payments.
Whether or not someone left a will can also complicate the matter further (see our section on wills) and most estates will need to complete an inheritance tax form whether or not a taxable estate was left.
At Financial Fortress, we have sadly helped clients on many occasions dealing with the whole process beginning to end. Your adviser is highly trained and extremely understanding that this is a very difficult time for you all. With minimal fuss, they will arrange for speedy payment of any policies and can certify documents providing the required identification that most providers will insist on. If any trusts are involved, we will also liaise with providers to have them unwound appropriately.
Where probate or letters of administration are required, we can provide you with the applications and inheritance tax forms and help you complete them accurately, first time on a face-to-face basis.
Some state benefits may be available such as bereavement payment, bereavement allowance or widowed parents’ allowance and we will advise you on making these claims also, taking care of the entire process.
We like to ensure our clients look after their affairs holistically, meaning although we don’t advise on some areas, we still recommend they are reviewed regularly with plans put in place. We do not advise on WILLS / POA’s ourselves and so any advice in these areas are not regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA).
Instead, most legal services are regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority and you can check whether a firm is authorised by checking their register here: https://www.sra.org.uk/consumers/register/
Ready to build your Financial Fortress?
Professional and qualified advisers
No cost or obligation initial review meeting.
A personal named and dedicated expert dedicated to you!