Choose the state, mark only completed preparation tasks, and identify the first task blocked by missing evidence or authority.
Working checklist
Estate settlement checklist
Use this to organize the work, not to guess a filing. Check the preparation tasks in sequence, then choose the state where your loved one lived.
0 of 18 preparation tasks checked
The short answer
A responsible checklist begins with protection, authority, ownership, and deadlines before it moves to claims, taxes, distribution, and closure.
Verify every state procedure, filing, threshold, fee, and deadline with the responsible current source before acting.
Do not use checklist completion as proof that probate is required, authority has been granted, or distribution is safe.
Your working resultA reusable progress record showing completed, blocked, urgent, and next-responsible tasks.
Keep in mind
Recheck the private starting planChecking more boxes is not progress when a prerequisite or stop condition remains unresolved.
01Set the state and role
02Complete what is ready
03Save the next responsible action
On this page
Stage 1
Protect people, property and records
Stage 2
Confirm who can act
Stage 3
Build one asset and obligation inventory
Stage 4
Verify the court or non-court route
Stage 5
Handle claims, taxes and distributions in order
Stage 6
Close with evidence
Why the state matters
Probate, small-estate procedures, court structure, filing forms, fees and deadlines differ by jurisdiction and facts. State-specific filing information appears only when its controlling court sources, check date and limitations are clear.
IRS Publication 559 provides federal orientation for survivors, executors and administrators. It does not replace a state court process.
The decision at the end of this page
Continue from the next incomplete task
Progress should leave you with a reusable plan, not another reading list.
Common questions
Quick answers
How do I choose a state before using filing information?
The national sequence helps you organize evidence. It does not establish a petition, deadline, fee, threshold or court route.
Why the state matters?
Probate, small-estate procedures, court structure, filing forms, fees and deadlines differ by jurisdiction and facts. State-specific filing information appears only when its controlling court sources, check date and limitations are clear.