Being named executor is a big job, and Pennsylvania has firm deadlines. Enter the date of death and the date letters were granted to see your key deadlines, then work through the checklist one step at a time. Your progress is saved in this browser.
For executors and administrators of Pennsylvania estates.
| Deadline | Date |
|---|---|
| Enter the date of death to see your deadlines. | |
1. The first few weeks
2. Opening the estate
3. Collecting and valuing
4. Debts and taxes
5. Closing the estate
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What an executor does in Pennsylvania
An executor, called a personal representative, collects the property of the person who died, pays valid debts and taxes, and distributes what is left according to the will. If there is no will, the court appoints an administrator who does the same job under Pennsylvania’s intestate succession rules.
Executors owe a duty to the beneficiaries. That means keeping good records, avoiding conflicts of interest and not mixing estate money with your own.
Key Pennsylvania estate deadlines
| Task | Deadline |
|---|---|
| Inheritance tax payment for 5% discount | 3 months after death |
| Rule 10.5 notice to beneficiaries and heirs | 3 months after letters are granted |
| Inventory filed with the Register of Wills | 9 months after death |
| Inheritance tax return (REV-1500) and tax | 9 months after death |
| Status report if the estate is still open | 2 years after death |
Common questions
How long does probate take in Pennsylvania?
A simple estate often takes about a year, mainly because of the creditor period and the inheritance tax return. Estates with real estate to sell, mineral interests, disputes or tax issues can take longer.
Can an executor be paid?
Yes. Pennsylvania allows reasonable compensation for an executor’s work, paid from the estate. The amount depends on the size of the estate and the work involved. Family members often waive it.
Do I need a lawyer to be an executor?
The law does not require one, but the executor is personally responsible for mistakes. Many executors hire an attorney to handle filings, the inheritance tax return and the final accounting.
Related guides
- What Is Probate in PA? The Process Step by Step
- How Long Does Probate Take in Pennsylvania?
- PA Inheritance Tax: Rates, Exemptions, and How It Works