Legal Question in Wills and Trusts in Massachusetts
I am the executor (and a beneficiary) of my father's estate and it seems most of the work is out of the way. All that is left is to pay the remaining small bills, do an estate tax return, and pay out to those named on the will. I was wondering how difficult it would be for me to do some of the work myself from here on out. Specifically, I need to pay $5,000 to a legatee. My understanding is that this requires a "receipt and consent", which sounds like it could be done by me. What is it and how can I do it myself?
1 Answer from Attorneys
Unfortunately, there is no way to evaluate whether anything done thus far was done correctly and, without knowing anything about the estate, it is also impossible to say exactly what is left to be done. You would certainly be wise to obtain written proof of receipt from any beneficiaries. If all you want is an example form, I suggest that you go to your local law library and review Newhall's Settlement of Estates and Fiduciary Law in Massachusetts. Good luck!