New figures from the Office for National Statistics reveal hidden wealth in Stroud, with six estates still unclaimed and waiting, according to experts.
Wills, trusts, and probate specialists at Brethertons have taken a closer look at the latest figures from the government’s unclaimed estates list, uncovering surprising numbers across Gloucestershire. The findings highlight the possibility that local families may be unaware of their entitlement to unclaimed inheritance.
Their analysis shows that 6 estates across Stroud currently remain without a rightful heir. The full stats for Gloucestershire are:
| Local Authority | Unclaimed Estates Count |
|---|---|
| Gloucester | 29 |
| Cheltenham | 14 |
| Stroud | 6 |
| Cotswold | 5 |
| Forest of Dean | 2 |
| Tewkesbury | 1 |
Laura Stuart, Wills, Capacity, Trusts and Probate Partner at Brethertons, has said: “Understanding who may be entitled to an unclaimed estate is not only important for individuals seeking their rightful inheritance, but also for ensuring estates are passed on in accordance with the law. Across England and Wales, many estates go unclaimed every year; likely because no will was left, or no known heirs have come forward.
“Therefore, at Brethertons, we’re shining a light on unclaimed estates registered across the regions we serve. By monitoring the latest updates, we aim to raise awareness and encourage people to check for family connections that could entitle them to a forgotten inheritance.”
What is an unclaimed estate?
When a person dies without leaving a valid will (intestate), their estate is distributed to their relatives according to the statutory intestacy rules. An estate only becomes an ‘unclaimed estate’ (Bona Vacantia) if no entitled relatives can be identified or traced, in which case it passes to the Crown as ownerless property.
Think you could be entitled to an unclaimed estate in Stroud? Here’s what to do next…
If you suspect you may be entitled to an unclaimed estate in Stroud, it’s important to take the right steps to establish your claim. Therefore, experts at Brethertons have outlined their key recommendations:
Check the Bona Vacantia List
Visit the UK government’s unclaimed estate list, which is updated every working day. You can search by surname, using Ctrl-F, to see if any unclaimed estates may relate to your family.
Gather Supporting Information
If you recognise your family name within the list, begin collecting evidence of your connection. This may include birth, marriage, or death certificates, family trees, wills, or other documents that help prove your relationship to the deceased.
Act Promptly
It’s important to remember that time limits apply. Claims can generally be made within 12 years (or up to 30 years in some cases) from the date the estate was reported. Acting quickly increases your chances of success and reduces the risk of the estate being absorbed by the Crown.
Seek Legal Guidance
The process of claiming an estate can be complex and sometimes overwhelming. Brethertons’ wills, trusts, and probate specialists can help verify your entitlement, guide you through the legal requirements, and support you in making a formal claim to the estate.
Need help with wills, trusts and probate? If you’re looking to get your affairs in order this year, Brethertons can help with expert advice. Their experienced team is here to guide you through every step with clarity and care. Get in touch with any of their offices in Banbury, Bicester, Cheltenham or Rugby.
