Loune-Djenia Askew, Esq.
Aug 14, 2024
If you’ve been named as an administrator, you have responsibilities and must follow a clear plan to make sure everything is handled properly.
If you’ve been named as an administrator, you have responsibilities and must follow a clear plan to make sure everything is handled properly. Below is a simple checklist to guide you through the key steps in administering an estate.
1. Obtain the Death Certificate
One of your first tasks as an administrator is to obtain several certified copies of the deceased’s death certificate. You’ll need these for various tasks, such as closing accounts and transferring assets.
2. Locate the Will
If the deceased left a will, you’ll need to locate it and ensure it’s the original. The will is the guiding document for distributing the estate according to the deceased’s wishes. If there is no will, the estate will be handled according to state laws.
3. Petition the Court
You’ll need to file a petition with the probate court to be officially appointed as the estate’s administrator. Once appointed, you’ll have the legal authority to manage the estate’s affairs.
4. Notify Beneficiaries and Heirs
It’s your duty to inform all beneficiaries named in the will, as well as any heirs if there is no will. They have the right to know about the probate process and the estate’s status.
5. Inventory the Estate’s Assets
Make a detailed list of all the deceased’s assets, including bank accounts, real estate, personal property, and investments.
6. Pay Debts and Taxes
Before distributing any assets to beneficiaries, you must pay any outstanding debts and taxes owed by the estate. This includes notifying creditors and filing the deceased’s final tax returns.
7. Distribute the Estate
After paying all debts and taxes, you can distribute the remaining assets according to the will or state law if there is no will. Make sure you follow the will’s instructions carefully or the guidelines provided by the court.
8. Close the Estate
Once all tasks are completed, you can file a final accounting with the probate court to close the estate. This step officially ends your duties as the administrator.
For more information, contact our office at Askew & Associates, P.A. by calling 954-546-2699.
Disclaimer: this blog post is not intended to be legal advice. We highly recommend speaking to an attorney if you have any legal concerns.