Unresponsive Beneficiary

Primrose

Margot123 wrote: »

They aren't on the open register (Electoral Roll), I've already checked.

All seems very odd, as who on Earth ignores such a vast sum of money?

Somebody who is perhaps in the throes of an acrimonious divorce and trying to keep the money at bay until a financial settlement has been agreed to avoid having to hand part of it over ?

Keep_pedalling

Primrose wrote: »

Somebody who is perhaps in the throes of an acrimonious divorce and trying to keep the money at bay until a financial settlement has been agreed to avoid having to hand part of it over ?

Good point, try tracking down the spouse.

Margot123

Keep_pedalling wrote: »

Good point, try tracking down the spouse.

Well, of those, I think there may be many going by their track record.
:embarasse

Another thought is that they may have a legitimate reason eg escaping domestic abuse or similar.

jackyann

I think that benefit fraud, although possible, is unlikely for this sort of sum. I also think that Margot's suggestion of escaping abuse is unlikely as they are active on social media, according to one of your posts. Also, should that be the case, someone can normally get assistance in getting an inheritance (which would be very useful!)
I think the other suggestions are more likely, but that doesn't really help you.
I would contact the Probate Office, they are usually helpful. Depending on their advice, I would consider:

Taking a firm stance with the solicitor you are dealing with. Say that you want to make interim payments to the other beneficiaries, and leave enough in the account to pay the non-responsive one, plus some for legal / admin expenses.
Once done, could you consider handing it over to the solicitor? It would mean some legal expenses coming out of yours and the other beneficiary's inheritance, but might be worthwhile.
Otherwise, leave the inheritance sitting in an account (have you opened a 'probate' account?) and ensure you keep evidence of your attempts to pay.

It has just occurred to me that you could send a letter saying ' I have tried to establish proper contact and pay you properly. You should know that I am considering an extended trip abroad in the very near future. Although your share will of course be kept for you, you may find that contacting me to access it may be difficult and time-consuming'.

Yorkshireman99

Whilst tempting it is never a good idea to lie! It can backfire.

jackyann

I stand rebuked Yorkshireman, and was writing that bit off the cuff! But would draw your attention to the words 'considering' & 'may' !!!
Apologies OP!

Yorkshireman99

Sorry! I know you meant well. The OP is in a dreadful position.It is very frustrating for her and for those trying to help. I a situation like this the OP needs to do everything strictly by the book in case it all goes pearshaped.

Margot123

Thanks everyone for all the help and suggestions.
I am ringing my solicitor in the morning and will see what he says.

It really is an unusual situation but I must do everything 'by the book' as Yorkshireman says. In my experience, it's always those who are of devious nature who make the first accusations.