Final Estate Settlement

Record income.

Record debts.

Record expenses.

Calculate net remaining.

Provide supporting documents.

Provide bank statements.

Provide receipts.

Submit distribution plan.

Judge authorizes distribution.

The judge signs the Order for Final Distribution, giving the executor permission to distribute assets.

Retain a Cash Reserve

Do not distribute 100% of funds immediately. Keep a small reserve ($1-5k) for 6-12 months for unexpected tax bills or late creditor claims.

Issue checks.

Collect receipts.

For the purposes of the closing order which gets signed off by the judge to prove the estate has been correctly distributed.

Log payouts.

Require 'Receipt and Release' forms

Never hand out a check without getting a signed document where the beneficiary acknowledges receipt and releases you from further liability.

Refunding Bond' (if applicable)

A legal agreement where the beneficiary promises to return the money if a valid creditor claim shows up later. Essential for executor protection.

Verify $0 balance.

Request closing statement.

Submit final accounting.

Judge issues closing order.

means the court officially approves the final accounting and declares the probate case complete, allowing the executor to finish distributions and close the estate permanently.