TL;DR
A family’s Microsoft stock investment from the 80s/90s turns into a tangled mess due to poor documentation and a sibling’s intervention, highlighting the importance of transparency and proactive financial management.
Story
A family inheritance shrouded in mystery. A sibling’s questionable intervention. Decades-old Microsoft stock potentially worth a fortune. This isn’t a feel-good story—it’s a cautionary tale.
The original poster (OP) is navigating a financial maze, thanks to a well-intentioned but poorly executed investment by her mother. The mother, back in the 80s/90s, bought Microsoft stock for her children. So far, so good. But the lack of clear documentation is where things get murky.
One sister’s “restructuring” of the account raises immediate red flags. Was this a legitimate act or something more sinister? Without proper records, it’s anyone’s guess. This highlights a crucial lesson: transparency and documentation are paramount in any financial arrangement, especially within families.
The OP’s reliance on unclaimed property notices for dividends and her sister’s continued receipt of checks suggest the stock still exists. But accessing it is proving a Herculean task. The situation echoes countless historical instances of misplaced or forgotten assets. Remember, those “forgotten fortunes” often come with legal battles and familial strife.
The advice offered online, while well-meaning, ranges from contacting Computershare (Microsoft’s transfer agent) to lawyering up. Each suggestion carries its own set of risks and costs. The OP’s predicament underscores a harsh reality: even legitimate assets can become inaccessible due to poor record-keeping.
‣ Transfer Agent: A company hired by a corporation to manage investor records and handle stock transfers.
‣ Dividend: A portion of a company’s profits paid to shareholders.
This story is a painful reminder of the importance of due diligence and proactive financial management. Assume nothing, document everything, and be wary of any verbal agreements, especially with family.
Advice
Treat family finances with the same rigor as any business deal. Document everything, and never assume verbal agreements are enough.