How do I get access to a safe deposit box if I am on the account but can not find a key?
Unfortunately, the only answer is to have the box drilled. This process will probably require a fair amount of energy to coordinate arrangements with the bank, and may be expensive. The bank may not permit you to even drill the box if your name is not on the account and your power of attorney does not specifically mention access to safe deposit boxes (there is nothing in the law mandating that result, but in our experience banks are often difficult to deal with regarding safe deposit boxes). This is a good opportunity to advise seniors who do maintain a safe deposit box: please put the key in a place where it can be located, and give your family information not only about the location and contents of the box, but also about the location of the key.
