Pre-Probate Preparation

Check will for named executor.

Identify next-of-kin if no will.

The most common structure for order of presedence for next of kin; Spouse, Children, Parents, Siblings, Grandparents, Aunts and Uncles, First Cousins. If no legal relatives exist, the estate eventually goes to the state government.

Confirm person is willing to act.

It’s a critical step because being an executor is optional, it’s not automatic, and the person can say no.

Legal name of deceased.

Enter the name under settings - deceased

SSN (Social Security Number)

Primary address at time of death.

Enter the name under settings - deceased

Marital status.

Enter the name under settings - deceased

Names of heirs/beneficiaries.

List real property (house addresses & approximate value)

List properties & land owned, partially owned in all states or countries. It all counts within the estate even if it's dealt in different jurisdictions. Approximate values can either be found through an estate agency or using online platforms like zillow.

List vehicles.

If ownership documents and vehicle insurance details can be found too, this is helpful incase of a future sale.

List bank accounts.

Check here whether there is any named beneficiaries upon death set up. This will make transfering funds much easier and is something to be noted during the probate process.

List investments.

List them here.

List cryptocurrencies.

List them here.

List debts.

List them here.

List personal property.

List them here.

List insurance policies.

List them here.

Mark unknown values.

Even if you don't know the value of an item - list the item and label as pending valuation.