Why anyone who thinks Bernie Madoff owes them money should get to a Post Office. Like, now

The Financial Conduct Authority has just sent out its very own final reminder notice, warning investors who lost money at the hands of convicted fraudster Bernard Madoff that they have just seven days to file a claim for compensation with the Madoff Victim Fund. 

 

Bernie's victims are pointed towards a dedicated Department of Justice website and urged to submit their claim to the DoJ's "Special Master" by next Friday – 28 February.

 

There's just one problem. Despite having set up a comprehensive website – complete with an insightful biography of Special Master Richard C. Breeden, a lengthy reproduction of some very specific email Q&As and the ever-present FAQ section – the DoJ wants claimants to submit their petitions by good old fashioned snail mail. 

 

Which could be a problem, given that Royal Mail's estimated airmail delivery time to the US is an optimistic 5-7 days.

 

But don't panic, the process should be pretty quick. 

 

Breedon's team is absolutely clear that they "don't want the claim process to be so complex that it prevents real victims from completing the process". So just head to the website, Work out which one of three forms you need to download (the catchily titled IND, DIR or PV), read and fill out the 11-15 page document, print and mail it to a PO Box address in Syracuse, New York State. 

 

Supporting documents can be submitted – how else – burned onto a CD. 

 

This December will mark six years since Madoff was arrested in New York. With the weekend looming and just five working days to hit deadline, it's time to get downloading like it's 2008.