Assemble and Inventory The Estate’s Assets

Gather all asset documentation and determine the total to be disbursed to heirs. These assets may include checking and savings accounts, stocks and bonds, vehicle or boat titles, real estate deeds and other property. If this information is not easy to find, review bank statements, old tax returns, canceled checks and the deceased’s checkbook register. They can provide clues to the deceased’s insurance policy, automobile loan or mortgage. You may also be able to determine the deceased’s income sources, including Social Security or Veterans Administration benefits.