American Research Bureau

Services for Attorneys, Trust Officers, and Estate Administrators


ARB locates missing heirs or unknown heirs. ARB is qualified to assist in any aspect of heirship research, documentation and evaluation.

Complimentary initial evaluation

  • ARB staff conduct a complimentary evaluation based on known information in the specific case. This initial evaluation may locate the heirs at no cost or obligation!
  • If the heirs are not located during the initial evaluation, ARB sends a written quote which includes costs and time to complete. ARB will not proceed without authorization.
  • ARB receives nothing unless the search is successfully completed in the specified time.


Flexible and competitive fees

  • ARB fees are structured to meet the needs of each case. ARB offers a choice, including:
    • Contingent fee at no cost to the estate and no payment until distribution to ARB clients.
    • Flat fee based on known information and paid only if ARB is successful. Competitors often charge for "results" which can mean being paid when no heirs are found. ARB is never paid unless the assignment is successfully completed.

  • ARB fees may be paid by the estate, from the share of missing heirs, or in other ways which best meet the needs of a unique case.
  • ARB does not recommend hourly fees paid whether research is successful or not; hourly fees prolong the research process and provide no incentive to search quickly and efficiently.

A simple, direct approach

  • ARB will work under a court order or simply on authorized approval saving time and costs.
  • ARB prepares documentation to be submitted to the court, including certified records, a genealogical chart, declarations or other items required to establish heirship.
  • ARB certifies all heirs-at-law are identified so a correct heirship order can be obtained.


For courtesy searches or further information, please call ARB at 1-800-628-7221

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