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Understanding Probate and Trust Administration
We provide clear guidance on whether probate is necessary and how to efficiently administer a trust or estate.
Guiding You Through the Probate Process with Confidence
Comprehensive Estate Administration Services You Can Trust
When a loved one passes away, managing their estate can feel overwhelming. At Ravenell Law, we help executors, trustees, and beneficiaries navigate the legal and financial complexities of estate administration.
Request a Free ConsultationStreamlining the Estate Administration Process
We simplify estate administration by handling legal responsibilities, reducing stress, and ensuring compliance with Pennsylvania and New Jersey probate laws.
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Managing Assets and Debts
Our team assists in identifying, valuing, and distributing estate assets while ensuring all legal and financial obligations are met.
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Resolving Disputes and Legal Challenges
Estate matters can sometimes lead to disputes. We provide skilled legal representation to protect your interests and help resolve conflicts efficiently.
Tax Deadlines Executors Face in Pennsylvania and New Jersey
Death taxes set some of the first firm dates in an estate. Pennsylvania and New Jersey each have an inheritance tax with its own rates and deadlines, and a large estate may also owe federal estate tax. This is general information, not legal advice; what applies depends on where the decedent lived, where property is located, and who inherits.
Pennsylvania Inheritance Tax
The Pennsylvania Department of Revenue lists the rates by who receives the property: 0 percent on transfers to a surviving spouse or to a parent from a child aged 21 or younger, 4.5 percent to direct descendants and lineal heirs, 12 percent to siblings, and 15 percent to other heirs.
The tax is due at death and becomes delinquent nine months after the death. If the tax is paid within three months of death, a 5 percent discount is allowed, so an early estimated payment is often worth discussing in the first weeks of an administration.
New Jersey Inheritance Tax
New Jersey's inheritance tax depends on the beneficiary's class. According to the New Jersey Division of Taxation, no tax is due for Class A beneficiaries. For Class C, the first $25,000 is exempt, and rates then run from 11 to 16 percent. Class D rates are 15 percent on the first $700,000 and 16 percent above that.
A required return must be filed, and any tax paid, within eight months of the date of death. Interest runs at an annual rate of 10 percent on tax not paid within eight months. Even when no return is required, banks and title companies may need tax waivers before releasing accounts or real property.
New Jersey Estate Tax and Federal Estate Tax
New Jersey no longer imposes an estate tax for individuals who died on or after January 1, 2018, though the New Jersey inheritance tax may still apply.
At the federal level, the IRS lists a basic exclusion amount of $15,000,000 for decedents dying in 2026. Executors of estates near or above that amount should plan around federal filing requirements as well as the state deadlines above.
Areas We Serve
Media, Pennsylvania · New Jersey · Cherry Hill
Related Resources
- The first 90 days of a Pennsylvania estate
- What is a short certificate in PA?
- Letters testamentary vs. letters of administration
- Is there a small estate affidavit in Pennsylvania?
- New Jersey inheritance tax and tax waivers
- Pennsylvania inheritance tax on real estate
- Unforgiven debt and the estate
- Owning property in both Pennsylvania and New Jersey
- What if you appoint the wrong executor?
Frequently Asked Questions
What is estate administration, and why is it important?
Estate administration is the process of managing and distributing a deceased person's assets in accordance with their will or intestacy laws. We help ensure every step is handled properly and in compliance with legal requirements.
What's the difference between an executor and an administrator?
An executor is named in a will to manage the estate, while an administrator is appointed by the probate court when there's no valid will. Both roles carry similar responsibilities but differ in how they are designated.
How is real estate handled during estate administration?
Real estate often requires additional steps including appraisals and title transfers. We assist with property sales, title issues, and coordinating transactions.
What happens when there's no will?
When someone dies without a will, Pennsylvania or New Jersey intestacy laws determine how assets are distributed. We guide families through court-appointed administration and ensure compliance with state requirements.
What is a Pennsylvania short certificate?
It is certified proof from the Register of Wills that a personal representative has been appointed. Banks often ask for it after Letters are issued. It is not a death certificate. County fees and packets vary; confirm with the Register in the county where the decedent lived.
Ravenell Law
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Your Legacy, Protected
With Ravenell Law, you gain more than legal services—you gain a trusted partner. Let us help you navigate the complexities of estate planning and elder law with solutions tailored to your unique goals.
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8033 Old York Road, Ste 210
Elkins Park, PA 19027Contact Us
(215) 935-6277Hours
Mon – Fri, 9:00am – 6:00pm
William S. Ravenell
Founder & Lead Attorney