Estate Administration in Pennsylvania

At Chadwick Estate Law, our seasoned attorneys provide comprehensive support to clients throughout Pennsylvania, including Philadelphia, Delaware, Chester, and Montgomery counties, in administering estates following a loved one's passing. Governed by the Probate, Estates and Fiduciaries Code (20 Pa.C.S.), estate administration involves managing assets, settling debts, and ensuring proper distribution.

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What is Estate Administration?

Types of Estate Administration Services

At Chadwick Estate Law, we handle every stage of administration:

  • Asset Management & Inventory — Prepare and file detailed inventories within statutory deadlines (20 Pa.C.S. § 3301).

  • Debt & Tax Settlement — Negotiate creditor claims and file inheritance tax returns (72 P.S. § 9116).

  • Distribution in Kind — Transfer property directly to heirs (20 Pa.C.S. § 3531).

  • Partial Distributions — Provide early access to funds while protecting against overpayment (20 Pa.C.S. § 3532).

  • Family Settlement Agreements — Draft enforceable agreements to resolve disputes efficiently.

Advantages of Proper Estate Administration

  • Structured Distribution — Ensures compliance with will or intestacy law.

  • Debt Resolution — Pays creditors in priority order, protecting heirs.

  • Court Oversight — Safeguards beneficiaries via audits and surcharges (20 Pa.C.S. § 3505).

  • Flexible Settlements — Avoids costly litigation with negotiated family settlements.

  • Efficient Closure — Accelerates beneficiary access while maintaining legal compliance.

Key Responsibilities Managed

Asset Collection & Valuation

  • Locate and appraise all probate assets.

  • File inventory with the Register of Wills.

Financial Obligations

  • Settle valid debts.

  • File inheritance tax returns and secure Department of Revenue clearances.

Distributions

  • Administer specific gifts and general distributions.

  • Draft and implement family settlement agreements.

Compliance

  • Maintain accurate accounts.

  • File required reports with Orphans’ Court.

Safeguards in Estate Administration

  • Court Supervision via Orphans’ Court jurisdiction (20 Pa.C.S. § 711).

  • Inventory Verification within nine months of death.

  • Surcharge Mechanisms to penalize fiduciary mismanagement.

  • Notice Requirements ensuring transparency for creditors and heirs.

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FAQs

  • Appointment of a personal representative after probate.

  • Usually 9–18 months depending on complexity.

  • Sometimes, via partial distribution (20 Pa.C.S. § 3532).

  • Yes, inheritance tax applies to most PA estates (72 P.S. § 9116).

  • Family settlement agreements can resolve disputes outside litigation.

CONTACT US

Protect Your Legacy with a Plan You Understand
Call 215-277-0888, email Bass, or fill out this form to get started.

Call: (215) 277-0888

Email: bass@chadwickestatelaw.com

Office: Wayne, PA