The executor (personal representative) has significant responsibilities starting immediately after death. The first 30 days set the foundation for successful estate administration.
10 steps across 2 sections
1. Steps Process (First 30 Days)
- Days 1-3: Locate the will, arrange funeral (if not pre-planned), secure the home and valuables, begin notifying immediate family.
- Days 3-7: Order 10-15 death certificates, notify employer, contact life insurance companies, secure financial accounts, forward mail.
- Days 7-14: File will with probate court, petition for Letters Testamentary, notify Social Security, begin notifying banks and financial institutions.
- Days 14-21: Open estate bank account (with EIN), redirect income to estate account, begin asset inventory, notify creditors.
- Days 21-30: Complete initial asset inventory, engage probate attorney, engage CPA for tax planning, notify beneficiaries formally, begin creditor claims period.
2. Key Details
- Letters Testamentary: Legal authority document from probate court
- EIN: Needed for estate bank account (apply at irs.gov/ein)
- Asset inventory: Real estate, vehicles, bank accounts, investments, personal property, digital assets
- Do NOT distribute assets in the first 30 days
- Keep meticulous records of all actions and expenses
Pro Tips
- Hire a probate attorney early — the estate pays
- Keep a detailed log of all time spent on estate matters (for compensation cla...
- Do not pay any bills from personal funds — use estate funds only
- Communicate with beneficiaries regularly to prevent disputes
- Get professional appraisals for valuable assets (real estate, art, jewelry)