Five Deadlines That Every Executor Must Know About, After your loved one has passed, you may find yourself named under his or her will as the executor of the estate. Accepting this appointment is a big responsibility. As the executor, you are responsible for meeting certain strict deadlines. Understanding these dates is crucial to your ability to carry out a smooth estate administration.
Executors: Be Sure to Make Note of These Important Dates
What dates should be on your calendar? The following is an overview:
- Obtain a tax identification number right away after your loved one’s passing. This number is for the estate. This number should be used rather than using the number of your deceased loved one.
- Provide notice within three months of your loved one’s death to the California Department of Heath Services. This notice must inform them of your loved one’s passing as well as your acceptance of the appointment of executor. You also must file a copy of the death certificate with this organization.
- Generally, it is your responsibility to notify the creditors of your loved one of his or her death, and this should be done in the first four months. In cases where a new creditor becomes known after the four month deadline has expired, notify the creditor within one month after receiving such notice.
- Upon the receipt of a claim from a creditor, deny or approve payment within one month from knowledge of the debt.
- Pay all taxes on time. You may need to file an income tax return for the decedent’s estate by April 15th of the following year. You may also need to file an estate tax return within nine months of the date of your loved one’s passing.
Five Deadlines That Every Executor Must Know About, Fortunately for executors, an experienced attorney can help walk you through the estate administration process and reduce the likelihood that you miss any important deadline. We encourage you to contact us today for a consultation. Fill out our easy contact form directly from our website for more information.