Probate / 'Unclaimed Inheritance' Fee Scam
A 'lawyer' or 'bank' says a distant relative left you a fortune (or that unclaimed funds are yours) and you must pay fees or taxes to release it.
Think a message like this reached you? You can check it right now.
What this scam is
You're contacted by an 'estate attorney,' 'bank officer,' or 'government agency' claiming a long-lost relative died leaving you an inheritance, or that you have unclaimed funds — but you must pay legal fees, taxes, or transfer charges first, usually by wire. Sometimes they ask you to pose as the heir and split it. There is no inheritance; the fees (and any bank/ID details you share) are the scam. Legitimate inheritances and unclaimed-property claims don't require upfront payments to a caller.
What it usually looks like
- A claim of an inheritance from a distant/unknown relative.
- Fees or taxes to 'release' the funds.
- Requests for bank details or ID.
- Sometimes an offer to split the money.
Common warning signs
- Inheritances from relatives you've never heard of.
- Upfront fees/taxes to receive funds.
- Wire/gift-card payment demands.
- Requests to pose as an heir or share the money.
Example wording scammers use
“A client with your surname died leaving $6.5M with no heirs — as next of kin, pay the legal fee and it's yours.”
“You have unclaimed funds; wire the release charge to receive them.”
These are illustrative examples written by ScamSplain, not real messages.
What the scammers want
- Advance 'fees' by wire.
- Your bank details and ID.
- To exploit hope of a windfall.
This is general safety information, not professional advice. It is not legal, financial, medical, or immigration advice, and it does not create a professional relationship. For your own situation, speak with a qualified professional or the official organisation involved. If you are in immediate danger, contact your local emergency number.
What to do
- Never pay fees to claim an 'inheritance' or unclaimed funds.
- Search real unclaimed property only at official state sites (free).
- Don't share bank/ID details or agree to pose as an heir.
- Verify any estate matter with an independent attorney.
What to do if you already responded
- Contact your bank about any wire; watch for identity misuse.
- Report to your state AG and the FTC.
- Report at reportfraud.ftc.gov.