Selling Deceased Estate Shares

Handling a deceased estate can be tough, especially when shares are involved. With our guidance, we aim to make the process less daunting and more manageable.

Whether you’re an executor, lawyer, or next of kin, we’ve got you covered. So let us show you how to sell or transfer shares for a deceased estate.

Selling Deceased Estate Shares: The Online Process

To start you can complete our online share sale form. It’s straightforward and only takes about five minutes. You’ll need the Security Reference Number (SRN) and some basic information about the shareholding.

Next, you’ll complete an online ID check, sent automatically to each executor’s email address. This process involves accepting terms and conditions and leaving a voice message via an automated phone line.

Lastly, you’re required to send certified copies of probate or will and death certificates. These can be emailed or uploaded. Remember, the process is secure and confidential, and help is available if you encounter any complex scenarios.

It’s a simple, efficient way to handle a potentially challenging task.

Required Deceased Estate Documents

You’ll need to gather the necessary deceased estate documents to continue with the share sale process.

These crucial documents include:

• Certified copies of the deceased’s will.
• Their death certificate.
• If the estate is substantial, you may also need probate documents.

You can get your documents certified by authorised individuals such as a lawyer or a justice of the peace. 
Make sure to scan or photograph these documents clearly to ensure they’re legible. Afterwards, you can email or upload these files for verification.

Understanding Deceased Estate Share Sales

After gathering the necessary documents, it’s time for you to start the process of selling shares from deceased estates.

This involves transferring the shares to the executor or beneficiary, which follows the probate process. You’ll need the Security Reference Number (SRN) for each shareholding.

Once you’ve got the SRN, you can start the online share sale form and online ID check. Then you can send the required documents to the relevant parties and the shares can be sold.  

What Are The Fees Involved?

While selling shares from a deceased estate, our standard brokerage fees apply plus a standard surcharge. The surcharge is an additional fee often applied to cover administrative expenses associated with handling the estate’s shares.

How Long Do Deceased Estate Share Sales Take?

Once we receive all of the documents we can proceed with the sale of the shares. Depending on the market conditions and the type of shares, this takes 1-2 business days.

The proceeds from the sale are usually transferred three business days after the sale is completed.

How To Determine If The Deceased Person Held Any Shares

Once the process of selling the deceased’s estate shares has begun, it’s crucial to first identify if the departed individual had any shares.

You’ll need to thoroughly examine their financial records and documentation, such as bank statements, tax returns, or communication from a broker or financial advisor. Look for any evidence of share ownership, such as dividend payments, share certificates, or stock exchange transaction statements.

You can also check the share registry with the company’s share registrar. They can confirm if the deceased person held shares and provide the necessary details. Alternatively, hire a probate genealogist; they specialise in tracing assets, including shares, of deceased persons.

What If There Is No Will?

In cases where the deceased individual left no will, it’s a whole different ball game when it comes to selling the estate’s shares. You’ll find yourself dealing with intestacy laws, which vary by region. Typically, the estate’s assets, including any shares, are divided among next of kin according to the law. Usually, a court-appointed administrator oversees this whole estate administration process.

To sell the shares, you’ll need to apply to the court for a ‘grant of letters of administration.’ Once granted, you become the ‘administrator’ of the estate. As the administrator, you have the authority to sell the shares.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Happens If There Are Disputes Among Executors Regarding The Sale Of Shares?

If you’re in a dispute with co-executors over selling shares, it’s best to seek legal advice. Courts can intervene in such disputes, so it’s crucial to try resolving issues amicably to avoid legal complications.

How Are Shares Divided Among Beneficiaries In The Absence Of Specific Instructions In The Will?

In the absence of specific instructions in the will, shares are typically divided equally among beneficiaries. You must consult an estate attorney to understand the legal implications and ensure fair distribution.

Can Shares Be Sold If The Death Of The Shareholder Is Not Yet Legally Confirmed?

You can’t sell shares if the shareholder’s death isn’t legally confirmed. Verification like a death certificate is typically needed. Until then, the shares remain in the deceased’s name. Consult a legal expert for advice.

What Happens To The Dividends Of The Shares During The Process Of Selling Deceased Estate Shares?

During the process of selling shares, any dividends declared are typically paid to the estate. It’s your responsibility as the executor to ensure these funds are distributed according to the deceased’s will or legal requirements.

How Are The Taxes On The Capital Gains From The Sale Of Shares Handled In The Case Of A Deceased Estate?

When you sell shares from an estate, you’ll likely face capital gains tax. The estate’s executor usually has to handle this and pay tax. The tax payable is calculated on the difference between capital gain on the sale price and the deceased’s cost base.