Before finalising the estate and making final distributions to beneficiaries the executor/administrator must inform the beneficiaries about the total assets and liabilities, seek tax advice for the estate and recommend beneficiaries seek their own independent tax and financial advice.

If claims have been made against the estate or there has been some hostility between family members or beneficiaries you should seek legal advice before preparing a distribution letter to beneficiaries.

Writing an estate distribution letter

An estate distribution letter is an important step in the estate administration process and communicates the proposed distribution of the estate.

An estate distribution letter offers clarity to beneficiaries and should include:

• The deceased’s personal details
• A detailed and complete list of all assets and liabilities
• The beneficiary names and details of their respective inheritances
• Any details on debt settlement and creditor communication
• An overview of the testamentary costs, taxes and other payments made from the estate
• A timeline for asset distribution