For executors & successor trustees
Estate settlement,
step by step
Settling an estate is complex and emotionally difficult. Estateur guides you through every required step, from probate filing to final distribution, with the right documents for your state.
How it works
A structured process that doesn't miss a step.
Intake & inventory
Upload the death certificate and estate documents. We guide you through building a complete asset and debt inventory so nothing is missed.
Notice & creditor period
We prepare the probate filing and creditor notice documents for your state. You review and file; we handle the paperwork.
Tax filings
Final individual income-tax return (Form 1040), estate income-tax return (Form 1041), and estate-tax analysis. Provided to your CPA or prepared for straightforward estates.
Asset transfers & distribution
Beneficiary-designation transfers, deed preparation for real property, and distribution letters, prepared to your state's requirements.
Final accounting & close
A complete accounting of income, disbursements, and distributions. Petition to close probate, or trust termination documents, whichever applies.
Who this is for
Named executors
You've been named executor in a will and need to know exactly what to do, in the right order, with the right documents.
Successor trustees
You're stepping into the trustee role after the grantor's death and need to administer the trust correctly and legally.
Family members
No formal estate plan existed, or you're helping a loved one navigate the process and need a reliable guide.
Documents we prepare
- Petition to Open Probate
- Letters Testamentary / Administration
- Notice to Creditors
- Inventory & Appraisal
- Estate Income Tax Return (Form 1041) support
- Beneficiary Release / Receipts
- Deed of Distribution (real property)
- Trust Accounting
- Petition to Close Probate
- Trust Termination Letter
- Digital-asset transfer instructions
- Successor Trustee Affidavit
Common questions
- Do I need an attorney to settle an estate?
- Many estates (especially those with a trust, clear beneficiary designations, and modest complexity) can be settled without an attorney. For larger estates, disputed claims, or complex assets like business interests, consulting an estate attorney is wise. We help you understand when professional legal advice is necessary.
- How long does estate settlement take?
- A simple estate with a trust and no probate can often be settled in 3–6 months. Probate estates typically take 9–18 months depending on the state, creditor claim periods, and any disputes. Contested estates or complex tax issues can take longer.
- What if the deceased had a revocable living trust?
- Trust administration bypasses probate. As successor trustee, you manage the trust assets, pay debts, and distribute to beneficiaries per the trust terms, without court supervision. We prepare the trust administration documents you need.
- What states do you support?
- Our document preparation covers all 50 states and the District of Columbia. Probate procedures vary significantly by state, and all documents are tailored to your jurisdiction.
Ready to get started?
We'll guide you through every required step with the right documents for your state.
Start estate settlement