When someone passes away in Connecticut, the local Probate Court oversees the estate. In short, the Probate Court makes sure debts are paid and property is distributed to beneficiaries (if there is a will) or to heirs (if there is no will).

Sounds easy enough and for many estates it is relatively straightforward. But as you might imagine, the bigger estate the more likely it is that issues arise.

Here is a summary of the estate administration process:

1. Open an estate in the Probate Court by filing an Application along with the will and death certificate. The Court will appoint an Executor (will) or Administrator (no will). This is the individual responsible for filing documents on time and fulfilling the obligations of the estate. Some consider this an honor; others a burden.

2. Gather all assets and have them valued. An Inventory must be completed and filed within two months.

3. Settle debts and pay expenses of the estate. After five months, the Executor must file a list of claims and expenses with the Court.

4. File tax returns. State of Connecticut return must be filed even if no tax is due. Federal Tax Returns may need to be filed if the estate is over $2 million.

5. Distribute estate assets. The Executor is required to file a Final Accounting requesting the Court’s approval to distribute the remaining estate assets after the payment of expenses. The Court must hold a hearing in case there are any objections to the proposed distribution.

CategoryProbate

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