APEARS

Australian Probate Estate and Asset Related Services

Transfer Indemnity Bonds

Various share registries and share brokers will accept a transfer indemnity bond in lieu of a resealed grant.  The bond provides cover to the value of the shareholding and protects the registries against any future claims.  The bonds are issued by QBE Insurance at a premium that is economical up to about $50,000.00 as compared with resealing.  The bonds are also issued within one week of the proposal being received.

Stamping of Documents

In all cases in Australia, off market transfers of real property and non-listed unit holdings to beneficiaries and / or new trustees require assessment at the relevant jurisdictions revenue office.  We prepare the necessary lodgment documents and pay any duty assessed.  Importantly we can advise in advance as to what duty may be payable which may assist any decision that may be being made.

Searching for Missing Beneficiaries

There are occasions where the last known residence of a beneficiary is in Australia somewhere.  In these instances we are able to undertake initial searches and report findings. These include a search of Electoral Rolls, Internet and telephone listings and advertising in local and national papers. Of course not all beneficiaries want to be found!

Other

We are also able to undertake ad hoc tasks such as obtaining death, birth and marriage certificates, opening bank accounts and liaising with estate agents on rental properties etc. If we are not able to assist directly we refer you to someone who can.