The Short Answer

In Pennsylvania, you typically close an estate bank account only after you can document that the estate’s bills, taxes, and approved distributions have been handled. The “closing statement” most people need is usually a final bank statement (showing a zero balance) and/or documentation that supports the estate’s final accounting and distributions.

What Pennsylvania Law Says

Estate funds are handled by the personal representative (executor/administrator) as part of administering the estate. Pennsylvania law anticipates that, to wrap up administration and distribute what remains, the personal representative may need to file an account and a proposed distribution with the Orphans’ Court, and then distribute in accordance with what the court confirms/approves (or what local rules allow after confirmation).

The Statute

The primary law governing this issue is 20 Pa.C.S. § 3501.1.

This statute establishes that a personal representative may file an account after certain time periods following the first complete advertisement of the grant of letters (and can be compelled to account), which is a key legal step that often ties directly to final distributions and closing out estate funds.

Why You Should Speak with an Attorney

While the statute provides the general framework, closing an estate account is rarely just a “bank task.” It usually depends on whether the estate is truly ready to close and whether you can support every transaction if anyone challenges it. Legal outcomes often depend on:

• Strict Deadlines: Under 20 Pa.C.S. § 3501.1, there are timing rules tied to the first complete advertisement of the grant of letters that affect when an account may be filed (and when you may be forced to file one).
• Burden of Proof: If you file an account, you generally need documentation to support receipts, payments, and distributions—bank records are often central evidence, and missing statements can create major problems.
• Exceptions and Court/Local Rule Requirements: Pennsylvania practice can vary by county through local Orphans’ Court procedures, and the “right” closing documentation can differ depending on whether you are doing a formal account, an informal settlement, or responding to beneficiary objections.

An attorney can coordinate the legal closing (accounting/distribution documentation) with the practical closing (bank paperwork) so you don’t get stuck with a frozen account, beneficiary disputes, or personal liability for an improper distribution.

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Disclaimer: This article provides general information under Pennsylvania law and does not create an attorney-client relationship. Laws change frequently. For legal advice specific to your situation, please consult with a licensed attorney.