Mary Jo Allen

Navigating Estate Administration in Pennsylvania: A Guide from Falvello Law

The loss of a loved one is never easy—and dealing with the legal and financial complexities of their estate can feel overwhelming. At Falvello Law, we help families across Pennsylvania navigate the estate administration process with clarity, compassion, and confidence. Whether you're an executor, administrator, or beneficiary, understanding your responsibilities and rights is essential.

What Is Estate Administration?

Estate administration is the legal process of managing and settling a deceased person’s estate. This includes:

• Identifying and valuing assets

• Paying outstanding debts and taxes

• Distributing property according to the will—or, if there’s no will, in accordance with Pennsylvania law

If the decedent had a will, the person named as executor is responsible for carrying out its terms. If there is no will, the court will appoint an administrator, often a close relative, to oversee the estate.

Probate vs. Non-Probate Assets

Not all property goes through probate. Estate assets are generally divided into two categories:

Probate Assets

These assets are titled in the decedent’s name only and pass under the terms of the will or intestacy laws. Examples include:

• Solely owned real estate

• Bank accounts without a joint owner or named beneficiary

• Personal belongings

Non-Probate Assets

These bypass probate and go directly to the named beneficiaries. Examples include:

• Jointly owned property with right of survivorship

• Life insurance policies with a designated beneficiary

• Retirement accounts (IRAs, 401(k)s)

• Payable-on-death (POD) bank accounts

At Falvello Law, we help families determine which assets require probate and develop a clear plan for managing both types.

Responsibilities of an Executor or Administrator

If you've been named as executor or appointed as administrator, you’re legally obligated to act in the best interests of the estate and its beneficiaries. Your duties may include:

1. Filing the will with the Register of Wills

2. Applying for probate

3. Notifying heirs and beneficiaries

4. Securing and managing estate assets

5. Paying debts, taxes, and expenses

6. Distributing remaining assets to beneficiaries

This process can take several months to over a year, depending on the size and complexity of the estate. With experienced legal counsel, you can avoid costly mistakes and ensure everything is handled properly.

Pennsylvania Inheritance Tax

One important aspect of estate administration in Pennsylvania is the inheritance tax. This tax is imposed on the transfer of property to beneficiaries and varies based on their relationship to the decedent:

• 0% for surviving spouses and charitable organizations

• 4.5% for direct descendants (children, grandchildren)

• 12% for siblings

• 15% for others

Tax returns must be filed within nine months of death, although discounts may apply if paid early. At Falvello Law, we help you calculate and file inheritance tax properly and explore strategies to minimize liability.

How Falvello Law Can Help

Estate administration can be complex, especially during a time of grief. At Falvello Law, we provide step-by-step legal support to:

• Guide executors and administrators through every legal obligation

• Handle probate filings and court appearances

• Work with accountants, appraisers, and tax professionals

• Resolve disputes among heirs or creditors

• Ensure a smooth and efficient estate settlement

Whether the estate is simple or complex, we’re here to make the process manageable and stress-free.

Let Us Help You Move Forward

If you’ve recently lost a loved one and are facing estate administration, Falvello Law is ready to assist you with compassion and legal precision.