If the deceased, known as the decedent, dies with a drafted will, the executor or the personal representative in the will typically must file for probate. If the deceased, known as the decedent, dies with a drafted will, the executor or the personal representative in the will typically must file for probate.
You can learn more about probate in Pennsylvania at. What happens to a death benefit if the decedent's spouse or the surviving spouse refuses to sign the will? If a spouse or the surviving spouse of the decedent refuses to sign, an executor or personal representative in the will typically cannot claim this benefit. In the event that the decedent leaves no will and there is no surviving spouse to sign with the executor, the personal representative may file for probate, obtain a copy of the written will, and then file a claim for the benefit of the decedent's estate. If a spouse or the surviving spousal of a decedent refuses to sign, an executor or personal representative in the will typically cannot claim this benefit. In the event that the decedent leaves no will and there is no surviving spouse to sign with the executor, the personal representative may file for probate, obtain a copy of the written will, and then file a claim for the benefit of the decedent's estate.
Disclaimer
The materials in this section are taken from public sources. We disclaim all representations or any warranties, express or implied, as to the accuracy, authenticity, reliability, accessibility, adequacy, or completeness of any data in this paragraph. Nevertheless, we make every effort to cite public sources deemed reliable and trustworthy.