DEAR R.M.: Occurrences of people finding old stock certificates are pretty common. Many times, those certificates were reported as lost and long since were replaced. There are a number of companies that, for a fee, will do their best to find out whether these certificates have value. If you're prepared to pay the relatively modest fee, that would be the best direction to go. You should be aware that, as often as not, the stocks were replaced many years ago or possibly sold. However, hope springs eternal, and many times, the couple hundred bucks it may cost you will at the very least make you feel a little better about the transaction. Since they were in your dad's name, they make interesting keepsakes and certainly ought to be framed and hung.
DEAR BRUCE: Many years ago, while my wife and I resided in New York, we had a will made. Can you please tell me if this will is valid in Pennsylvania, where we currently reside? -- Richard in Pennsylvania
DEAR R.F.: The important information in your letter was "many years ago." It's entirely possible that this will is valid, but a will should be brought up to date from time to time, and, since you are now Pennsylvania residents and many things have changed, why not consult an attorney there, telling him or her what you wish to accomplish and get a new will drawn. The likelihood is that this will is valid. However, it is such a minor expense and, unfortunately, its validity will only be determined upon your demise. At that point, it's impossible to fix.