Pittsburgh Family Law Services, P.C. Blog

When someone passes away in Pennsylvania and an estate is opened, the person who handles the process is known as the executor or administrator.  An "executor" is someone who is appointed in the person's will.  An "administrator" or "personal representative" is someone appointed by the court when there is no will.  This person has very important responsibilities in making sure the estate is handled properly.  

The duties that are most well-known for an executor involve identifying and gathering the decedent's assets.  They do this by closing bank accounts, transferring vehicles, and selling property such as the decedent's house. Checking accounts, savings accounts, even PayPal or cash back accounts all qualify as "assets."  They also identify whether someone had a life insurance policy, 401(k), or other investment account and make sure the designated beneficiary receives the funds.  

The executor also has the responsibility to pay debts of the decedent.  These include final medical expenses, credit cards, and past due taxes.  The other expenses that get paid are the Pennsylvania Inheritance Tax, which is due within 9 months of death.  These expenses are paid from the decedent's estate account, rather than the executor's personal funds.  

Finally, the executor provides an accounting of how estate funds were used and then issues a proposal for distribution to the beneficiaries.  This will either be done in accordance with the terms of a decedent's will or it will be done according to the Pennsylvania intestacy statute if someone passes away without a will. 

Along the way, the executor is wearing many other hats as well.  They're arranging for estate sales, meeting with realtors and contractors, and managing claims made by various creditors.  They are also responsible for filing multiple documents with the court that identify the assets and what the status is of the estate.  Being an executor is a responsibility that requires a good amount of time, dedication, and organization.  

If you were recently appointed as an executor or administrator, it's important that you understand your responsibilities obligations.  Working with an attorney can help ease some of the burden by managing the deadlines and setting priorities for what needs to happen.