Personal Representative Checklist

• Search for a will, make sure it is valid/current.

• Notify organizations with open accounts in the Decedent’s name of the death to help prevent fraud. Remember: cell phone, utilities, credit cards, checking accounts, etc.

• Inventory the Decedent’s assets. Identify and notify heirs and interested parties to help understand the estate.

• Contact the Decedent’s county probate court or an estate attorney to determine what proceeding (probate, small estate, etc.) is necessary.

• Make sure you are formally recognized as the personal representative by the court. Once appointed, obtain several copies of the death certificate.

• Collect the assets.

• Identify potential creditors of the estate.  Review the Decedent’s personal papers and bank accounts, check the Decedent’s mail, and obtain a copy of the Decedent’s credit report.

• Serve notice of the estate on creditors and heirs so they may file claims on the estate. Publish a notice in a newspaper of general circulation. 

• Investigate claims made on the estate to determine validity.

• Liquidate and/or transfer title of assets.

• Complete an interim accounting to know the value of the estate and to know if there are funds to pay debts and expenses.

• After all claims are received, pay the Decedent’s continuing bills and get releases verifying payments. Pay outstanding debts and valid claims on the estate (get releases).  If there are insufficient assets to pay all debts in full, the debts may need to be paid in order of priority. Contact the court or an attorney for guidance.

• Make a record of all payments, deposits, and distributions of the estate and file it with the court if necessary (called an accounting). Serve it on interested parties.

• File the Decedent’s last tax return and pay taxes.

• File receipts with the court and wrap up any closing details of the estate.

• If no objections are raised or sustained, distribute the rest of the estate based on the order of priority in the Decedent’s state’s probate code and/or the will.

The contents of this checklist are intended to provide helpful suggestions to a family member or other survivor who has assumed the duties of concluding the affairs of a loved one/decedent. The list is not intended to be exhaustive. It is not intended to provide legal or financial advice nor to be relied on in lieu of such services. If you have specific questions relating to an estate you are handling, you may find it helpful to consult with a probate attorney or financial professional.

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