How long does it take to probate an estate and distribute the assets to the beneficiaries?
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How long does it take to probate an estate and distribute the assets to the beneficiaries?
My grandfather left money to all his grandchildren. He died a year ago. We have signed and notarized all the paperwork and to date have not received what was left to us.
Asked on June 30, 2011 under Estate Planning, New York
Answers:
M.T.G., Member, New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 12 years ago | Contributor
I am so sorry for your loss. The answer to this question is not really that cut and dry. In other words I can not say that it should take only a year or 2 years to probate and finalize the estate. It is common for probate to take upwards of 1-3 years, depending on state law, the complexity of the estate, and the filing of taxes. Creditors have to be contacted (and thankfully New York has a strict statute of limitations on compliance once notice is properly given so that the matter does not linger on and on) and debts paid before the proceeds of the estate are distributed. If you think that too much time has gone by then contact the executor and ask what the status is. Ask if an accounting has been filed. Good luck.
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