Do I Need Probate in Pennsylvania?
Answer 5 quick questions about the deceased's assets to find out whether probate is required.
Did the deceased own real estate solely in their name?
A house, land, rental property, or any real estate titled only in the deceased's name — not jointly with a spouse or in a trust.
Did they have bank or investment accounts solely in their name?
Accounts without a co-owner, payable-on-death (POD) designation, or transfer-on-death (TOD) designation.
Did they have retirement accounts or life insurance?
IRAs, 401(k)s, pensions, and life insurance policies with named beneficiaries pass outside probate.
What is the approximate value of assets that were solely in the deceased's name?
Only count assets without co-owners, beneficiaries, or trust ownership. This determines whether simplified procedures might apply.
Did the deceased have a will?
A will does not avoid probate — it guides how assets are distributed through the probate process.
We guide executors through every step of probate in Westmoreland and Allegheny Counties.
Free Consultation Probate Timeline ToolThis quiz provides general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Whether probate is required depends on how specific assets are titled, which requires a review of actual account statements, deeds, and beneficiary designations. Consult a licensed Pennsylvania attorney.