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I am not related to the Deceased, but I did help the Deceased in later years by running errands and generally looking after the Deceased. Can I be reimbursed for this?


Updated by MLAW

It depends on whether the Deceased has any beneficiary or a will.

 

If the Deceased has beneficiary or a will

No, you cannot be reimbursed if the Deceased has:

  • Beneficiary who are legally entitled to inherit

  • A valid will naming beneficiary

Why: The estate legally belongs to these entitled people, even if they choose not to claim it immediately.

 

If the Deceased has no beneficiary or will (bona vacantia)

You may be able to get reimbursement if the Deceased died with no beneficiary and no valid will. This is called a bona vacantia estate (which means "ownerless goods").

To know more about Bona Vacantia you may visit the link: Ministry of Law | What is an equitable or moral claim on a bona vacantia estate?

 

How it works and claim

The Public Trustee's Office will assess each claim individually on a case-by-case basis. For detailed step-by-step instructions on submitting your claim, visit Ministry of Law | How do I make an equitable or moral claim on a bona vacantia estate that is ≤ $50,000?

 

When you can make a claim

For detailed information about the waiting period, visit: Ministry of Law | When can I make an equitable or moral claim on a bona vacantia estate?

 

Important things to know

No guarantee of success, each claim is assessed individually. Meeting the eligibility criteria does not guarantee you will receive reimbursement.

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