The Short Answer

In Pennsylvania, an executor (personal representative) can generally be paid back from estate funds for reasonable expenses of administering the estate, and can also request reasonable compensation for the work of serving as executor. The key is that the expense must be tied to proper estate administration and be supportable with documentation, because beneficiaries can object and the Orphans’ Court has the final say.

What Pennsylvania Law Says

Executor reimbursement and fees are treated as part of the estate’s administration costs. Pennsylvania courts review whether the amounts claimed are reasonable and just in light of the work performed and the circumstances of the estate. If an expense is personal, unnecessary, or primarily benefits one beneficiary rather than the estate, it may be disallowed and can even create surcharge risk.

The Statute

The primary law governing executor compensation is 20 Pa.C.S. § 3537.

This statute establishes that the court shall allow the personal representative compensation that is reasonable and just under the circumstances (and the court may calculate it on a graduated percentage).

Some administration costs are also expressly recognized by statute as estate expenses. For example, reasonable costs to store, insure, pack, and deliver tangible personal property to a beneficiary are paid as an expense of administration unless the will provides otherwise. See 20 Pa.C.S. § 3534.1. Pennsylvania law also allows a personal representative to purchase liability insurance at the estate’s expense to protect the representative and beneficiaries from third-party claims arising from administration. See 20 Pa.C.S. § 3313.

Common examples of estate administration expenses (depending on the facts) can include court-related costs, postage and copying for estate notices, appraisals, property protection costs (like insurance), necessary travel tied to estate tasks, and professional fees (such as attorney or accountant fees) when reasonably incurred for the estate’s benefit.

Why You Should Speak with an Attorney

While the statutes provide the general rule, applying them to your specific situation is rarely simple. Legal outcomes often depend on:

• Strict Deadlines: Estate administration has court-driven timelines and notice requirements, and reimbursement/fee issues often get litigated at the accounting stage—waiting too long or paying yourself incorrectly can trigger objections.
• Burden of Proof: If a beneficiary challenges your executor expenses or compensation, you may need to prove the charges were reasonable, necessary, and for the estate (not personal spending).
• Exceptions: The will may limit or waive executor compensation, certain “expenses” may be treated as beneficiary-specific (and not payable by the estate), and conflicts of interest (like paying yourself or family members) can require careful legal handling.

Trying to handle reimbursement informally can lead to disputes, repayment demands, or court-ordered reductions. A probate attorney can help you document expenses correctly, structure payments appropriately, and reduce the risk of objections or surcharge.

If you want more background, you may also find these helpful: executor responsibilities during probate in Pennsylvania and probate attorney fees and costs in Pennsylvania.

Get Connected with a Pennsylvania Attorney

Do not leave your legal outcome to chance. We can connect you with a pre-screened Probate attorney in Pennsylvania to discuss your specific facts and options.

Find a Pennsylvania Attorney Now

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.