Settling an estate, even a simple one, involves plenty of loose ends and details. The following list will give you an idea of the many things you may need to do as executor. Use it as a guide, adding or deleting items as needed.
• Locate the will.
• Obtain a lawyer, if necessary
• Apply to appear before the probate court
• Notify beneficiaries named in the will
• Arrange for publication of notice to creditors and mail a notice to each known creditor
• Send notices of the person’s death to the post office, utilities, banks and credit card companies
• Inventory all assets and have them appraised, if necessary
• Collect debts owed to the estate
• Check with deceased’s employer for unpaid salary, insurance and other employee benefits
• File for Social Security, civil service and/or veterans benefits
• File for life insurance and other benefits
• File city, state and/or federal tax returns
This information is from a booklet published by the Consumer Information Center. To obtain a catalog of free and low-cost federal publications of consumer interest, call toll-free 1-888-8PUEBLO (1-888-878-3256); or send your name and address to Consumer Information Catalog, Pueblo, CO 81009; or visit them on-line at www.pueblo.gsa.gov
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