What is the executor’s job? Understanding Pennsylvania
probate process
Once selected, an estate executor’s job is to oversee and manage the
administration of a decedent’s estate.
The time and effort of performing this task to completion varies based on the:
- size and complexity of the estate;
- presence of a will; and
- number of heirs who stand to inherit the property and assets of the estate.
The executor is also known as the “personal representative” of the estate, and he or she
can be held liable for complaints against the estate, as well. The average administration
of an estate can take approximately one year, and some of the executor’s job
responsibilities included are:
- locating documents;
- hiring a probate attorney;
- notifying potential creditors and seeking heirs;
- paying out of debts and filing final tax income returns;
- maintaining accurate records;
- distributing assets to beneficiaries;
- terminating leases, credit cards, memberships, and subscriptions;
- continuing to pay certain expenses such as mortgage payments, homeowner’s insurance, and utilities; and
- filing a final accounting with probate court and closing the estate.
Enlisting the Services of a Pennsylvania Probate Attorney
Understanding an executor’s job and specific duties is a cumbersome task,
and it can be all the more harrowing when dealing with a large estate.
If you have been called upon to serve as the executor of an estate, reach out to
our office to find out how one of our dedicated probate and estate management
attorneys at Unruh, Turner, Burke & Frees can help you – 1-610-933-8069.
References:
Get Your Copy of The Ten Most Common Mistake Pennsylvania Executor’s Make and How To Avoid them
http://www.paestateplanners.com/reports/the-ten-most-common-mistates-executors-makeand-how-to-avoid-them.cfm
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