The executor has many responsibilities during probate. The personal representative’s primary duties include:

  • Identifying and creating an inventory of the assets of the estate

  • Determining which, if any, assets fall under probate

  • Receiving any payments due to the estate

  • Opening an estate checking account

  • Appraising or valuing estate assets

  • Determining who will receive what from the estate

  • Giving notice to potential creditors

  • Investigating claims against the estate

  • Paying outstanding debts and claims

  • Paying expenses to administer the estate

  • Handling paperwork which includes notifying Social Security of the death, court documents, and discontinuing utilities

  • Distributing property and assets to beneficiaries

  • Filing final taxes