When someone dies, the property and money within their estate will be distributed to their heirs or beneficiaries according to the will. For estates of a certain size, the distribution of property and assets cannot happen until the will or estate goes through probate, where the courts ensure that the deceased’s estate is settled according to state law. Early on in the process, you may be wondering how long after probate can funds be distributed in California.

When Must Funds Be Distributed After Probate?

California law requires the executor or representative of the deceased to finish the probate process within one year of their appointment. The executor must file a final report detailing how assets were distributed and all matters of the estate were settled. The report, which is reviewed by a judge toward the end of the probate process, offers a final accounting of the estate.

Once the judge is satisfied that the estate has been properly settled and all final receipts have been reviewed, the court will discharge the personal representative from their duties.

What Steps Must Be Completed Before Estate Funds Can Be Distributed?

The steps involved in probating an estate can be complicated and often require the legal counsel of a probate attorney. A probate attorney can provide advice and counsel for any person who is involved in the probate process, whether they are the representative of the estate or a member of the family who wishes to protect their claim to the estate.

• Filing the petition: The first step for the named executor is to file a Petition for Probate with the local probate court. If there is no will, the family members will assign an administrator for the estate. The executor or administrator may serve for several to 18 months. The first hearing is usually scheduled around one month after the initial petition processing.
• Mailing notices: All persons named in the will must be notified of the hearing date by mail. Creditors of the decedent must also be notified.
• Proving a will: Proving a will is the process of determining that a will was written and signed by the deceased owner of the estate. This can be done by contacting the witnesses listed on the will. A will must be valid to be considered for probate.
• Asset collection: The executor of the estate must account for all assets and debts tied to the estate. The assets and debts must be transferred to the name of the executor. Assets could include mutual funds, stocks, bonds, brokerage accounts, bank accounts, and physical assets. The court may request property appraisal or estate inventory as part of the probate process.
• Settling of debts: There is an order that must be followed when it comes to settling debts. Any outstanding government debts, both federal and state, must be paid in full. Once all funeral expenses, unsecured debts, and other forms of debt have been paid in full, the probate process can proceed.
• Estate tax payments: The administrator ensures that all estate taxes, both state and federal, are paid. If beneficiaries are paid before taxes and there aren’t enough assets remaining to cover taxes, the administrator can be held responsible.
• Settling the estate: Once the administrator distributes the remaining assets to beneficiaries and all outstanding fees are paid, a judge will review the final documents and release the estate administrator.

If you were recently tasked with settling an estate, you could potentially save yourself time and strain by hiring a San Diego probate lawyer who understands how to execute the steps required in probate court efficiently.

FAQs

Q: How Long Will It Take an Executor to Distribute Funds in California?

A: California law requires the executor of a will or the administrator of an estate to complete the probate process within one year from the date they were appointed as a personal representative to settle an estate. However, an exception is made when a federal estate tax return is filed, in which case the administrator has 18 months to close the estate.

Q: How Long After Probate Is Granted Will It Take to Get My Inheritance in California?

A: The representative of the estate is required to get you your money within one year of the beginning of the probate process. If a federal estate tax is filed as part of the probate process, the deadline extends to 18 months. Heirs and beneficiaries are only paid once existing debts are paid off. All government debts must be paid in full before any part of the estate can be distributed to heirs and beneficiaries.

Q: What Is the Order for Final Distribution in California Probate?

A: In California’s probate court system, the final distribution order is an official document that confirms the transfer of assets from the deceased to the beneficiaries or heirs. This order concludes the probate process. A judge will review the order and review final receipts before releasing the personal representative from their role in settling the estate.

Q: Do I Have to Have an Attorney to Complete the Probate Court Process?

A: You do not have to have an attorney to probate an estate, but retaining legal counsel can save you considerable time and effort. For anyone who is not familiar with the probate process, every step can be exceptionally confusing and time-consuming. Any error in filing could delay the probate process and create headaches and financial hardship for beneficiaries and heirs.

Q: Who Gets Paid First in Probate in California?

A: Any outstanding debts to the State of California or the federal government must be paid first. Other debts, such as secured debts, wage claims, family allowance, funeral costs, outstanding medical expenses, and unsecured debts, would have to be paid before the remaining assets could be distributed to heirs and beneficiaries of the estate. 

Enlist the Help of a Professional Probate Lawyer

Sweeney Probate Law can help you navigate California’s probate court system. Our experienced and knowledgeable lawyers have helped many families settle the estate of a loved one. We pride ourselves on being a valuable resource to our clients.

Working with an attorney can often shorten the amount of time it takes to complete the probate process. To schedule a consultation, contact the Sweeney Probate Law team so we can begin assisting you in your probate court case.