Legal Question in Wills and Trusts in Illinois

I would be concerned with providing your account information. If necessary, open a new account with minimal funds at a new bank and provide only that information.

If legitimate, the inheritance to him may not be taxable, but if he is then making a gift to you, careful planning must be considered. If the amount is of any significance, you should be asking advice in person and considering the cost of legal, tax, accounting and investment advice as protecting your investment. The fact that you are seeking advice here is foolish if so much is involved.

I totally agree with the attorney above, however, I am more concerned about your friend's motives. It seems to me that he may be attempting to hide assets from someone whether it be creditors or the IRS or merely an ex-wife, whatever. You need to consult a major law firm that handles probate and estate planning as well as a tax attorney. This much money only comes with comparable risks invovled. Be very cautious or just say No and avoid the problem altogether.

From your brief description of your situation, your facts remain unclear. If there is truly a substantial sum at issue, why are you going on the internet for free advice instead of seeking an attorney or financial advisor who will give you advice custom tailored to your situation? Hire somebody and make your own decision on what to do after receiving professional advice.

Since you refer to the individual or individuals as an "online contact" I would guess you have no previous relationship. This has scam written all over it. Maybe they will just be after your account information. Maybe they will want you to send them a little bit of money for "taxes," or "processing fees," or for "good faith." Maybe they send you a counterfeit check, and after you deposit it, you will send their share, and then find out the check was returned to your bank. Even if none of these scenarios is the case, you need to ask why someone would need a "partner" to inherit money. Hiding assets? This possibly could make you an accessory to a crime. If it sounds too good to be true....