1. Determine Eligibility:
The first step is to determine the eligibility of the decedent for PA Estate Administration. This includes examining whether or not they had sufficient assets in their estate and whether or not any legal issues need to be addressed.
2. Appoint a Personal Representative:
If necessary, an appropriate person needs to be appointed as the personal representative of the estate (executor) who will be responsible for managing the administration process.
3. Prepare Necessary Documents:
All required documents must be prepared and signed, including death certificates, inventory paperwork, wills, etc.
4. Notify Beneficiaries and Creditors:
Beneficiaries and creditors must be notified of the estate’s administration and any actions that need to be taken.
5. Collect Assets:
All assets held by the decedent must be collected and properly managed, including financial accounts, real estate, etc.
6. Pay Debts & Taxes:
All outstanding debts and taxes must be paid from the estate’s assets.
7. Distribute Remaining Assets:
Once all debts have been paid off, any remaining assets will then be distributed to the appropriate beneficiaries as outlined in the will or trust documents.
8. Close Estate Administration:
Finally, any required paperwork needs to be completed and filed with the courts to officially close out the estate administration process.