Detailed answer

This answer explains, in plain language, how beneficiaries can obtain a full accounting of estate assets and transactions while an Iowa probate is open. It summarizes the typical duties of a personal representative, the rights beneficiaries have to information, and the steps you can take if you need the court to compel an accounting.

Who normally prepares an accounting?

When someone is appointed to administer an estate (often called a personal representative or executor), Iowa law places duties on that person to collect estate assets, protect them, and distribute them to heirs and beneficiaries according to the will or the law. Part of those duties typically includes preparing inventories and accountings that show what the estate owned, what it received, what it paid out, and what remains for distribution. See Iowa Code chapter 633 for the statutes governing probate administration: Iowa Code, ch. 633.

What information can you expect to receive?

Accountings commonly show:

• Assets at the date of death and at later times
• Income to the estate (rent, dividends, interest, insurance proceeds, etc.)
• Payments and expenses (funeral costs, taxes, mortgages, attorney fees, creditor claims paid)
• Distributions to beneficiaries
• Receipts and supporting records for major transactions

Beneficiaries are entitled to enough detail to understand how the estate was handled and whether the personal representative fulfilled fiduciary duties.

Can you ask the court to demand an accounting?

Yes. If the personal representative does not provide a reasonable accounting, beneficiaries can ask the probate court to order one. The usual path is:

1. Request the accounting informally in writing from the personal representative. Often a written request prompts production of documents without court action.
2. If the request is ignored or the response is incomplete, file a formal petition or motion in the probate court handling the estate asking the court to compel an accounting. The court’s probate rules and Iowa Code chapter 633 govern the procedure and what the petition must say; you may have to attach evidence showing your status as a beneficiary and any prior requests.
3. The court will schedule a hearing and can order the personal representative to produce an accounting and supporting documents. If the representative fails to comply, the court has enforcement tools (for example, contempt, surcharge for losses, removal of the representative, or appointment of a receiver). The court can also approve or deny the account after review.

When should beneficiaries expect an accounting?

Timing varies. Some estates require periodic accountings; others provide a single final accounting before distributions. If you are unsure when an accounting will be filed, ask the personal representative in writing and, if needed, move the court for a formal accounting. The probate court supervises administration and has authority to require accounts as needed to protect beneficiaries.

What if you suspect wrongdoing?

If you suspect mismanagement, self-dealing, theft, or significant unexplained losses, you should act promptly. The court can order a detailed forensic accounting and take remedial actions if it finds breach of fiduciary duty. Saving copies of bank statements, emails, and letters, and asking the court for interim relief (like a temporary restraining order or appointment of a receiver) may be appropriate in severe cases.

Where to find the law and procedures

Primary Iowa statutes governing probate administration appear in Iowa Code chapter 633. You can also find practical probate guidance on the Iowa Courts website for the public: Iowa Courts — Probate information. For the statutory framework, see: Iowa Code, chapter 633 (Probate administration).

Helpful hints

• Start with a written request. Ask the personal representative for a complete accounting and copies of supporting records. Keep a copy of your request.
• Be specific. State the time period you want covered and the particular transactions or assets you want explained.
• Document communications. Keep emails, letters, and notes of phone calls. These show you tried to resolve the issue before asking the court to intervene.
• Know your status. Courts usually give accounting rights to heirs, devisees, and named beneficiaries. Confirm you are listed in the will or are an heir under Iowa law.
• Consider mediation or settlement conferences. Some probate courts encourage or require alternative dispute resolution before full hearings.
• Collect evidence early. If you suspect misconduct, preserve bank records, property records, and correspondence. Acting quickly helps if assets are at risk.
• Expect costs. Forcing an accounting can increase legal fees and court costs. If the court finds wrongdoing, it may order the fiduciary to pay those costs.
• Talk to a probate attorney. An attorney can explain rights, prepare pleadings, and represent you at hearings. If budget is a concern, ask about limited-scope help or a consultation to learn the best next step.