Distribute assets

If, after the distribution of desired personal property, beneficiaries have money yet to receive from the estate, it should be distributed at this time by the executor. Follow the will to determine the distribution.

Keep in mind that the distribution should be made to the beneficiary directly. If the beneficiary then wants to turn around and give the money to his or her children, for example, the beneficiary will have to do that. The executor should not distribute directly to the beneficiary’s children, and should make the payments by check or some other way that creates a permanent record.

It is possible that a creditor of the beneficiary will be able to reach the distribution of his or her share of the estate’s assets. Follow the instructions of the probate judge or the advice of the estate’s attorney if such a creditor tells you they have a right to this payment because of a debt owed to them by an heir.