The Short Answer

In Pennsylvania probate, the “notice to creditors” is generally handled by the personal representative (executor/administrator) by advertising the grant of Letters—not by filing a single form called a “Notice to Creditors” like some other states. Pennsylvania law requires publication in specific outlets for a set period, and the timing can affect creditor rights and the personal representative’s liability.

What Pennsylvania Law Says

After the Register of Wills grants Letters Testamentary (executor) or Letters of Administration (administrator), Pennsylvania requires the personal representative to promptly publish notice of that appointment. The published notice must identify the personal representative and request that creditors present their claims and that debtors of the decedent pay amounts owed.

The Statute

The primary law governing this issue is 20 Pa.C.S. § 3162.

This statute requires the personal representative, immediately after the grant of letters, to publish notice once a week for three successive weeks in (1) a newspaper of general circulation and (2) the county’s designated legal periodical (if any), requesting that claims be made known and debts be paid.

Why You Should Speak with an Attorney

While the statute provides the general rule, applying it to your specific situation is rarely simple. Legal outcomes often depend on:

• Strict Deadlines: The timing of the “first complete advertisement” can matter when a personal representative makes distributions “at risk.” Under 20 Pa.C.S. § 3532, certain creditor rights can turn on whether a claim is known within one year after the first complete advertisement (and there are additional rules for real property claims).
• Burden of Proof: If a creditor later alleges they gave proper notice of a claim, disputes may involve what was sent, when it was received, and whether it legally “counts” as notice under 20 Pa.C.S. § 3384.
• Exceptions and County-Specific Rules: The correct publication outlets (the “legal periodical” and acceptable newspapers) are often governed by local Orphans’ Court rules and practice. Using the wrong publication or incorrect wording can create risk for the estate and the personal representative.

Because mistakes can expose the personal representative to liability or delay closing the estate, it’s smart to have a Pennsylvania probate attorney oversee the notice and claims process. If you want more background, see: What Is the Creditor Claim Period in Pennsylvania Probate? and How Do Creditor Claims Work in a Pennsylvania Estate?.

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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.