Legal Question in Wills and Trusts in Pennsylvania

There is no time limit. Assuming the estate is not unduly complex, most estates are wrapped up in a year. If it will be longer than that, then you have to file status reports with the Orphans' Court/probate court. You will have to file an inventory of assets.

20 Pa.C.S.A. � 3301 (c) Time for filing.--The personal representative shall file his inventory no later than the date he files his account or the due date, including any extension, for the filing of the inheritance tax return for the estate, whichever is earlier. Any party in interest in the estate may request the filing of an inventory at an earlier date by writing delivered to the personal representative or his attorney in which event an inventory shall be filed within three months after the appointment of the personal representative or within 30 days after the request, whichever is later. The court may direct the personal representative to file an inventory of estate assets at any time.

20 Pa.C.S.A. � 3501.1

A personal representative may file his account at any time after four months from the first complete advertisement of the original grant of letters, but shall not file it earlier unless directed to do so by the court. A personal representative may be cited to file an account at any time after the expiration of six months from the first complete advertisement of the original grant of letters. A personal representative may be directed by the court to file an account of his administration at any time.

You will also have to get approval of the taxes from the PA department of revenue before you can close out the estate.