Why will I not receive my inheritance until 2018?

Full question:

My mother died in October 2016. She left me 10% of her estate. Her home sold but escrow doesn't close until January 6. I was told I would not receive my 10% until 2018. Why?

Answer:

You may not receive your share of the estate until all creditors are paid and the estate is fully administered. Typically, heirs receive their inheritance only after the estate is closed by the Personal Representative.

This content is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.

FAQs

When your mom dies, her house becomes part of her estate. The estate must go through probate, where debts and taxes are settled before any assets, including the house, are distributed to heirs. If there is a will, the executor will manage this process. If there is no will, the state laws on intestacy will determine how the house is distributed.