MENU

Advice for the Personal Representative of an Estate

May 27, 2016

If You are the Personal Representative

Acting as Personal Representative of an estate won’t be an overwhelming task if you’re organized.

You are legally responsible for protecting the assets of the decedent, or deceased, until the probate process is completed and the assets are disbursed. You have the right to refuse this position, and a contingent Personal Representative will be called, or the court will name a new one.

Doing these things will simplify EVERYTHING:

  1. Obtain the Death Certificate

  2. Find the Will or Trust

  3. Seek Professional Advice

  4. File Petition for Appointment as Personal Representative

    These are certified documents that prove you have the legal authority to act on behalf of the estate to begin the process of paying bills, filing tax returns, managing and distributing assets, dealing with beneficiaries, and opening or closing bank accounts.

  5. Locate and Protect the Assets

  6. Pay Bills and Taxes

  7. Don’t Rush the Process