Delete Pages From Legal Massachusetts Domestic Settlement Forms For Free

Even if an estate contains probate assets, you might be surprised to learn you may not need to go through a full formal probate. If the value of the decedent's estate is less than $25,000 and does not contain any real property, than a limited version of probate called Voluntary Administration may qualify.

The general rule is that an estate has to be probated within 3 years of when the decedent died. However, this deadline doesn't apply to: A voluntary administration. Determining heirs.

The decedent must have left an estate that consists entirely of personal property valued at $25,000 or less (excluding the value of a car). 30 days or more have passed since the decedent's death. The petitioner must be an interested person, but doesn't need to be a resident of Massachusetts.

Before the executor can finalize probate and close the estate, they must provide a final accounting that includes: An itemized list of the estate's assets. Any funds or property received by the estate during its administration.

Most users should use Decree and Order for Formal Removal Personal Representative (MPC 766). If you need to save a partially filled-out form, you may choose to use the alternative form: Alternative Decree and Order for Formal Removal Personal Representative (MPC 766)

The estate can be closed via a sworn statement, which asserts all debts and taxes have been paid, and the assets properly distributed to the decedent's heirs (either as directed under the will, or absent a will, under Massachusetts intestate laws).