Financial Institutions Refused to Honor Her Power of Attorney

[SecondCor521]

But I don't understand the "need to access their IRA online" after death.

Technically there's no need, as the executor should be able to get all of the needed information.

However, it would be nice to have several pieces of information:

1. Balances and positions - so beneficiaries can confirm that they receive the proper amount / number of shares.

2. RMD status - so beneficiaries can complete the year of death RMD if any of it remains.

3. Beneficiary designations - so the executor can ensure distributions happen according to the beneficiary designations.

In general, having access to balances, transactions, YTD tax stuff, basis information, etc. makes it easier for the executor and the beneficiaries can make sure everything transitions properly and any tax requirements are met.

Yes, of course the brokerages and custodians are going to do their jobs perfectly and not make any mistakes. We all know they never do. But the executor and beneficiaries may want to double check everything, especially if large amounts of money or detailed tax situations are involved.