When someone passes away, certain legal processes must take place to ensure that their property and belongings are passed correctly to their rightful heirs. Most states set timelines to guide how long it should take for a beneficiary to be notified of an individual’s death. This timeline depends on the state in which the beneficiary lives and the type of estate planning document used by the deceased.

In Tennessee, executors must notify beneficiaries within three months once the court receives the will, or within 60 days if the deceased established a trust. Although informal notifications meet this requirement, sending a certified letter is often a good decision. Methods such as contacting known associates, searching property records, or consulting a probate attorney can aid in locating beneficiaries if they’re initially hard to find.

Being Notified as a Beneficiary of a Will in Tennessee

In Tennessee, beneficiaries of a will are notified by the executor within three months once the court receives the will of the deceased. This must be done within 60 days if the deceased has established a trust. Informal notifications, such as a phone call or email, are legally acceptable. However, executors are advised to further solidify communication with beneficiaries by sending them a certified letter. 

A certified letter serves as formal confirmation of the beneficiary’s status. It provides crucial information about: 

• Their inclusion in the will 
• The subsequent probate process 
• Their rights and responsibilities under the will

All of this helps reduce the likelihood of confusion or disputes later on. 

By proactively sending out certified letters, executors demonstrate diligence in fulfilling their duties. It helps uphold transparency in the distribution of the decedent’s assets according to their wishes.

It’s best to hire a probate attorney to ensure the certified letter contains legally required information about the will, probate process, and beneficiary rights. They can also ensure compliance with relevant laws to minimize potential disputes or issues. At the same time, probate lawyers can provide expertise in clear and effective communication.

Example of a Certified Letter

[Your Name]

[Your Address]

[City, State, ZIP Code]

[Your Email Address]

[Your Phone Number]

[Date]

[Recipient’s Name]

[Recipient’s Address]

[City, State, ZIP Code]

Subject: Notification of Beneficiary Status in [Name of the Deceased]’s Will

Dear [Recipient’s Name],

I hope this letter finds you in good health. I am reaching out to inform you of your designation as a beneficiary in the last will and testament of [Name of the Deceased], dated [Date of the Will], recently enacted.

After a thorough examination of the will and its clauses, it has been ascertained that you are entitled to receive [Specify Details of the Inheritance, such as assets, properties, or monetary sums]. Please be aware that the particulars of your inheritance are outlined in the attached copy of the will for your perusal.

As the designated executor of the estate, I am dedicated to facilitating the probate process and ensuring the fulfillment of the wishes delineated in the will per legal requirements. Should you have any questions regarding your inheritance or the probate proceedings, please feel free to reach out to me at [Your Phone Number] or via email at [Your Email Address].

Furthermore, I respectfully urge you to carefully review the enclosed documents and seek legal counsel if necessary to comprehensively understand your entitlements and obligations as a beneficiary.

Please note that this notification constitutes the official communication regarding your status as a beneficiary in [Name of the Deceased]’s will. Your prompt attention to this matter would be greatly appreciated to facilitate the efficient administration of the estate.

Thank you for your cooperation, and I am eager to assist in this process.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

[Your Signature (if sending a hard copy)]

Enclosures:

Copy of [Name of the Deceased]’s Last Will and Testament

[Any other relevant documents]

What If You Can’t Locate the Beneficiaries?

Sometimes notifying beneficiaries of a will is easier said than done. Fortunately, you have options to help you search for and find them so they receive their portion of the estate. 

Contact Their Known Relatives, Friends, or Partners

Contacting known relatives, friends, or partners of beneficiaries can provide updated contact details and insights into their whereabouts. These individuals may be able to put you in contact with beneficiaries. Alternatively, they may offer a current means of reaching them to inform them about their inclusion in the will.

Search for Their Last Known Address

Searching the last known address of beneficiaries serves as a primary step in locating them. Even if they have relocated, you can find leads to their current whereabouts or contact details. Additionally, it may reveal forwarding addresses or contact information for their relatives or acquaintances, facilitating further attempts at notification. 

Search Property Records

Property ownership information often includes current addresses or contact details. You can gain insights into the beneficiaries’ current whereabouts by cross-referencing this data with other sources, such as public records or online databases. This method offers a more comprehensive understanding of their residency status, increasing the chances of successful notification about their inclusion in the will.

Contact Past Employers

Employers often retain records of former employees’ contact information, including addresses or phone numbers. By reaching out to these employers, you may obtain updated contact details or their forwarding information. This is especially helpful if beneficiaries have moved since their employment. 

Search Online

Social media platforms, public directories, and professional networking sites may contain valuable information about individuals’ current whereabouts. Conducting thorough online searches using the beneficiaries’ names or known details helps uncover contact information, recent activities, or other connections. 

Publish a Notice in the Local Newspaper

This can serve as a widespread method to locate beneficiaries. Reaching a broad audience includes those who may have lost touch with the beneficiaries. It also increases the chances of someone recognizing or having information about them. This method acts as a public call for anyone with relevant details to come forward.

Speak to a Probate Attorney for Advice

Attorneys possess legal expertise and access to various resources that can aid in the search process. To track down beneficiaries, they may utilize: 

• Their network 
• Legal databases 
• investigative techniques 

Additionally, attorneys can advise on the best course of action and ensure compliance with relevant laws and regulations throughout the notification process, increasing the likelihood of successfully informing beneficiaries about their inclusion in the will.

In Tennessee, executors must contact beneficiaries within three months after the court receives the will. This must be done within 60 days if the deceased established a trust. Sending a certified letter is ideal. If beneficiaries are difficult to contact, it helps to reach out to known associates, investigate property records, or seek guidance from a probate attorney. They can assist in locating beneficiaries if they prove challenging to find initially.

At Johnson, Murrell, & Associates, we understand that handling a loved one’s estate and bills after their passing is an emotional, stressful experience. Our job is to make your life easier, which means guiding you through the process so you understand what’s to come. To schedule a consultation, call us at 865-453-1091 or schedule an appointment.