People with certain surnames might be unaware that they could lay claim to estates averaging £270,000 in value.
Many Brits could unknowingly be sitting on a fortune.
Recent updates to the unclaimed estates list reveal that some surnames appear more frequently than others.
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Unclaimed estates refer to property, money or personal effects left by someone who has passed away without leaving a will or any known next of kin.
Currently, there are over 5,000 such estates waiting to be claimed, reports Birmingham Live.
Whilst the average value of these estates is £270,000, some could be worth significantly more.
Most of these unclaimed estates are located in London and the South East, but 253 can be found in the West Midlands.
The most common surnames at the top of the list include:
Smith – 94Jones – 55Brown – 45Williams – 35Taylor – 29Wilson – 27Davies – 26Johnson – 26Thomas – 24Harris – 21
Richard Bate, a finance expert at private wealth lawyers Weightmans, stated: “Creating a will is more than just a legal necessity; it’s a critical component of financial wellness.
“Without a clear will, you’re leaving the fate of your assets up to the courts, which can lead to long, stressful disputes among your potential heirs.
“By taking proactive steps in estate planning and utilising available resources, individuals can significantly reduce the chances of their estates becoming unclaimed.
“Ensuring that your final wishes are clearly documented and legally protected not only secures your legacy but also eases the burden on your loved ones during a challenging time.”
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