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06
Final Step

Closing the Estate

You've done the hard work. Now it's time to formally close the estate and complete your duties as executor.

Closing the estate properly protects you for the future. With distributions complete, there are final steps to ensure your duties are discharged and your records are in order.

Final estate accounts

We prepare final estate accounts showing all receipts and payments. Beneficiaries receive a copy showing exactly what came in, what went out, and how their share was calculated.

  • Summary of all assets collected
  • All debts and expenses paid
  • Distribution calculations
  • What each beneficiary received

Releases from beneficiaries

Before closing the estate, we usually obtain releases from beneficiaries. These confirm they've received their entitlement and release you from further liability as executor.

"Releases protect you. They confirm that beneficiaries are satisfied with the administration and won't come back with claims later."

How Carlile Dowling helps at this stage

  • - Prepare final accounts for the estate
  • - Obtain releases from all beneficiaries
  • - Advise surviving partner on updating their will and EPAs
  • - Confirm that everything is complete

You've completed the guide

You now understand the full estate administration process:

  • First steps after a death
  • Understanding and valuing the estate
  • Obtaining probate
  • Collecting assets and paying debts
  • Distributing to beneficiaries
  • Closing the estate properly

We're here to guide you through every step. Call us on 06 835 7394 or email 06 835 7394 .

Thank you for trusting us with this process

Serving as executor is a significant responsibility. We are glad to have helped you through it. If you or your family need us again in the future, we are here.

Contact us
Guide Complete

You've completed the guide

You are now ready to take the next step.

Contact Us

Need help with an estate?

Whether you are just starting or partway through, we are here to help you complete the administration properly.

Or call us on 06 835 7394

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