The Short Answer

In Pennsylvania probate, the key “appraisal” concept is usually establishing the vehicle’s fair value as of the decedent’s date of death for the estate inventory—not proving an insurance-style “diminished value” claim. To support that valuation, you typically need reliable documentation showing the vehicle’s condition and market value at the relevant date, and sometimes a written opinion from a qualified appraiser or dealer is appropriate depending on the stakes and whether anyone is disputing the number.

What Pennsylvania Law Says

Pennsylvania probate law requires the personal representative (executor/administrator) to inventory estate assets and assign a dollar value. For a vehicle, that generally means documenting what the car was worth on the date of death, using credible market-based support (for example, condition, mileage, options, and comparable sales). If heirs, creditors, or tax authorities challenge the valuation, the quality of your supporting documentation becomes critical.

The Statute

The primary law governing this issue is 20 Pa.C.S. § 3302.

This statute establishes that the personal representative must determine and state the fair value of each inventory item as of the date of the decedent’s death.

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: Estate administration has court and tax timelines, and valuation disputes often become harder (and more expensive) to fix after filings are made and relied on.
• Burden of Proof: If someone challenges the vehicle’s value, you may need persuasive, date-specific evidence of condition and market value (and sometimes testimony or a formal written valuation) to support the inventory figure.
• Exceptions: The “right” valuation method can vary depending on why the number is needed (inventory, inheritance tax, distribution disputes, creditor issues), and whether the vehicle had unusual features, prior damage, or a limited market.

Trying to handle this alone can lead to valuation disputes, delays in administration, or allegations that the estate inventory is inaccurate.

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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.