The passing of a loved one is an emotionally difficult time for family and friends. With this comes a time to bring the personal and financial affairs of the decedent to close. For those charged with the responsibility, administering the estate of a decedent can be daunting.

The responsibilities include but are not limited to:

• Assisting with funeral arrangements
• Probating the decedent’s will (or if there is no will, the court process of administration)
• Confirming the appointment of an executor or administrator
• Properly advertising the estate
• Notifying all beneficiaries and creditors 
• Marshalling the decedent’s assets
• Making payment of all final expenses and debts of the decedent
• Preparation of all final income tax returns and payment of income taxes
• Preparation of a Pennsylvania inheritance tax return and the payment of tax due thereunder
• Accounting for all funds and other assets into and out of the estate, including proof of payment to all estate beneficiaries
• Closing of the estate