Key Deadlines for Executors in Pennsylvania Probate Cases

Serving as an executor is both an honor and a legal responsibility. One of the most important aspects of the role is staying on top of key deadlines. Missing a deadline can result in delays, penalties, or personal liability.

Immediately After Death

• Secure the will — locate and secure the original will (if one exists).
• Safeguard assets — protect the decedent's property and financial accounts from loss or damage.
• Arrange burial or cremation — this responsibility often falls on the executor or next of kin.

Within the First Few Weeks

• File the will with the Register of Wills in the county where the decedent lived.
• Petition for Letters Testamentary to be formally appointed as executor.
• Obtain Short Certificates to access and manage estate accounts.
• Publish notice to creditors — this starts the one-year statute of limitations for creditor claims.
• Send notice to heirs and beneficiaries — notify all interested parties of your appointment.
• File Certificate of Notice with the Register of Wills confirming required notifications were sent.

Within Three Months

• Inheritance tax prepayment discount — Pennsylvania offers a 5% discount if inheritance tax is paid within three months of the decedent's death. Work with an attorney or accountant to calculate the estimated tax due.

Within Nine Months

• Pennsylvania Inheritance Tax Return (REV-1500) — report all taxable assets to the Pennsylvania Department of Revenue and pay the applicable tax.
• Estate inventory — file a complete inventory of all probate assets, including real estate, bank accounts, personal property, and other items.

Within One Year

• Creditor claims deadline — creditors have one year from the date of the published notice to file claims against the estate.
• Final income tax returns — file the decedent's final federal and state income tax returns.

Final Steps

• Prepare an accounting — formal or informal, detailing all receipts, disbursements, and distributions.
• Distribute remaining assets to beneficiaries in accordance with the will or intestacy law.
• Close the estate — file the final account with the court if required.

Protect Yourself as Executor

Mistakes in probate can be costly — and executors can be held personally liable. Working with an experienced probate attorney ensures full compliance, minimizes delays, and protects against liability.

Call Ament Law Group at (724) 733-3500 for experienced legal support in Pennsylvania probate cases.