Detailed Answer
This is not legal advice. It is intended for educational purposes only.
Under Washington law, a personal representative (PR) must prepare, file, and serve accountings to interested persons in a probate estate. The key statutes are:
- RCW 11.44.100 – Annual accounts and statements
- RCW 11.44.020 – Duties of personal representative
- RCW 11.44.033 – Notice upon filing of certain account
1. Who is an interested person?
Interested persons include beneficiaries, heirs, devisees, and certain creditors and other parties with a direct financial stake. See RCW 11.02.005.
2. When must the accounting be provided?
The PR must file an initial inventory and appraisal within six months of appointment. Thereafter, the PR must file and serve annual accounts within one year of appointment and every year until closing the estate (RCW 11.44.100).
3. How do you receive the accounting?
After filing, the PR must send written notice and a copy of the account to each interested person (RCW 11.44.033). If you are an interested person and have not received it, you can:
- Contact the PR or their attorney in writing, requesting a copy.
- File a motion with the probate court to compel production of the account.
4. What if the PR refuses?
You may petition the court under RCW 11.56.010 to enforce the PR’s duties. The court can order the PR to comply and may award costs or attorney fees.
Timely reviewing accountings helps you monitor estate assets, identify potential mismanagement, and protect your inheritance rights.
Helpful Hints
- Review your appointment papers to confirm you qualify as an interested person.
- Mark key deadlines: six months for the initial inventory and annual thereafter.
- Keep records of all communications with the PR or their attorney.
- If you spot irregularities in the accounting, raise them promptly in writing.
- Consult a probate attorney if the PR fails to comply or if disputes arise.