The Simplified Path to Closing an Estate
Not every estate needs a formal court hearing. Arizona offers a simpler way to close one out. The personal representative files a verified statement with the court.
This statement confirms that the estate has been fully managed. The filing can happen no earlier than four months after the original appointment.
Unless prohibited by order of the court and except for estates being administered in supervised administration proceedings, a personal representative may close an estate by filing with the court no earlier than four months after the date of original appointment of a general personal representative for the estate a verified statement stating that the personal representative, or a previous personal representative has: 1. Determined that the time limit for presentation of creditors' claims has expired. 2. Fully administered the estate of the decedent by making payment, settlement or other disposition of all claims that were presented, expenses of administration and estate, inheritance and other death taxes.
A.R.S. § 14-3933(A)The verified statement must confirm three things. First, the creditor claims period has ended. Second, the personal representative has paid all debts and taxes.
Third, the personal representative sent copies to all heirs and known creditors with unpaid claims. They must also give a full written account to each heir whose interests are affected.
When the Role Ends on Its Own
Once the closing statement is filed, a one-year clock starts. If no court proceedings involve the personal representative after that year, the role ends. No extra court order is needed.
If no proceedings involving the personal representative are pending in the court one year after the closing statement is filed, the appointment of the personal representative terminates.
A.R.S. § 14-3933(B)This is a handy tool for estates without disputes or tricky creditor issues. It saves time, cuts costs, and lets families move on. The full written account keeps things clear for everyone, even without a court hearing.