Leave records your family can use
Short answer: Keep one up-to-date list of every piece with photos, serial numbers, proof of purchase and where it is stored, and make sure a trusted person knows how to reach it.
What a complete record contains
An executor with no background in bullion should be able to find, identify and value every piece from your list alone.
- A line for every piece: type, weight, purity, quantity
- Front, back and invoice photos
- Serial and certificate numbers for bars
- Purchase price and date
- The exact storage location and how to access it
Say where and how
Records are useless if nobody can reach the metal. Note whether it is at home, in a safe deposit box or with a custodian, and who holds keys or codes.
Share it with the right people
Give your chosen beneficiaries view access, or tell them where to find the record, so that nothing depends on one person's memory.
Review it once a year
Update the list whenever you buy or sell, and review it every year so it matches what you actually own.
Questions
Is this legal advice?+
No. These are practical record-keeping tips. Rules on wills, tax and inheritance vary by country, so speak to a qualified adviser.
Can my family see my records in BullionKeeper?+
Vault Elite includes Family Vault, where you can name beneficiaries, give view access and export an executor-ready report.