Release of Assets from the Israeli General Guardian (Custodian General)
Israeli General Guardian unclaimed property is a little-known source of funds and assets, and these often belong to families abroad. If you think money or property may be held for you or your relatives, we can check. Where possible, we also release it. No need to travel to Israel – we handle everything remotely.
What Is the Israeli General Guardian (Custodian General)?
The Israeli General Guardian (האפוטרופוס הכללי) is a government body within the Ministry of Justice. In English it is often called the Administrator General or Custodian General. Among other things, it manages property and funds that have no claimant. For example, these include assets of deceased persons without known heirs and funds of people who cannot manage them. Money and property held there can remain unclaimed for many years. Custodian General Israel inheritance claims are often made by relatives abroad who did not know the assets existed.
How to Check Whether the Israeli General Guardian Holds Funds or Assets
The government maintains search systems and public lists, mostly in Hebrew. However, the information is not always complete or easy to interpret. We run the relevant searches for you and explain what the results mean. Finding an entry is only the start, because releasing the assets requires a formal application, proof of entitlement and legal follow-up. This is where legal representation matters.
The Israeli General Guardian Release Process
A non-resident claimant is usually asked for several documents. These include death certificates with an apostille, proof of the family relationship and identification documents. Legal declarations signed before an Israeli consul or a notary are also required. Where the claim depends on inheritance, we may first need to obtain an inheritance or probate order. We prepare the application and organize the documents. Then we respond to the authority’s requests and follow the file to its conclusion. Note that some signatures must be made abroad. No need to travel to Israel – we handle everything remotely, with consular signing or apostille only where the law requires it.
Taxes and Transfer of Funds Abroad
We stay with the case until the funds reach you. This includes reviewing the applicable tax treatment under Israeli law and handling any required tax approvals. Finally, we arrange the transfer of the net amount to your bank account abroad. Tax treatment depends on the type of asset and your circumstances. Therefore, we advise on it before any money is released.
Related Services
See also Locating Heirs and Beneficiaries in Israel, Property Restitution and Recovery in Israel and Israeli Land Registry (Tabu) Services
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do I have to travel to Israel?
A: In most cases, no. However, some documents may need to be signed before a notary or consul and apostilled in your country.
Q: How long does the process take?
A: It depends on the file, the authority’s workload and how quickly documents are returned. We cannot promise a fixed period. However, we give an estimate after the initial review.
Q: Can you transfer the money to my bank abroad?
A: Yes, once the funds are released and the tax aspects are handled, we can arrange the transfer to your account abroad.
Q: What documents will I need?
A: Typically apostilled death certificates, proof of family relationship, identification and signed declarations. We confirm the exact list for your case.
Contact us today for an initial review. No need to travel to Israel – we handle everything remotely. Call: +972-3-7315665 or email us info@shoshan-law.com
