Though you hear the term consistently, there is no such thing as Closing an Estate. Probate instructions never tell you how to “Close the Estate,” because it never actually happens. The term refers to the distribution of the estate’s final assets, which typically means that the Executor has run out of things to do.
The executor is always the executor. For example, let’s say 20 years after the deceased’s death, the personal representative discovers a previously unknown bank account. The executor may have distributed all other assets 19 years before, but the executor still has the right to gather this new bank account. The executor still has this power because the estate never closed; it just ran out of things to do. The administrator’s power remains. But, the executor’s liability also remains.
Because the executor is responsible forever, the administrator should receive a release of liability before distributing any funds. Without a release, a beneficiary could years later bring a Surcharge Action. The personal representative, now without any estate funds to pay his lawyer, must respond. Even if the charges are baseless, the executor is stuck paying the legal bill. Instead, before making any distribution, the administrator should insist on receiving a release. If beneficiaries refuse, the executor is free to file a Formal Accounting. If the judge approves the accounting, the executor is discharged.
With a release, the administrator can distribute the assets with confidence. With the distribution of all assets, the executor is said to have “closed the estate.” But, the executor still retains the power to gather newly discovered assets and address future complaints. The executor should not take the job lightly.
If you have any questions about Closing an Estate or The Probate Process, feel free to contact us to schedule a free consultation. For more than two decades Klenk Law has focused only on Estate Law. We’ve seen it all, and this experience allows us to explain complex estate law and Probate techniques clearly and concisely. We make it easy for you to understand The Probate Process so you can make the best decisions for yourself and your family.
Peter Klenk is the founding member of Klenk Law, a seven attorney boutique estate planning law firm. We serve clients in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, New York, Minnesota and Florida. Peter Klenk received his Masters in Taxation LL.M. from NYU Law School and his J.D. from the University of Minnesota Law School. He served his country in the Navy JAGC during Desert Storm. Easy to talk to, feel free to call Peter for an appointment. We will make the process as easy as possible!
"I worked for Peter Klenk for 4 wonderful years. I can’t speak highly enough of everyone at the firm. Everyone truly cares about their clients and has a strong sense of responsibility to get things done right. I would highly recommend Klenk Law!"
Flora Novick
It's our first time doing business with Klenk Law and it was absolutely very positive. All interactions were timely and very professional. Peter and all of his staff put us at ease when making our estate plans and answered any questions thoroughly. We would highly recommend.
Had our will done with Peter and his team. Made the process super easy and understandable. His team lead by Laura Parisi were always available for questions and assistance. Professional and personable they made what can be a challenging experience hopeful and graceful. Cannot recommend their services enough!
My wife and I were thoroughly satisfied. We had very clear explanations of complicated subjects.
Klenk was efficient and professional in designing and executing the necessary documents for my trust, will and associated paperwork after my moving to pa from out of state. This allowed an inherently unpleasant responsibility to be completed with minimal agony and diligence. His web site further enables executed document update and distribution with minimal fuss.
Peter offers excellent service in a easy friendly atmosphere. Highly recommended!
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