The Short Answer

In Pennsylvania, a newly discovered will can change who inherits and who should be in charge of the estate—even if you already signed paperwork as an heir in an intestate (no-will) estate. What happens next depends heavily on what you signed, when the will was found, and whether the estate has already distributed assets.

What Pennsylvania Law Says

Signing estate paperwork (for example, consents, waivers, or an intestate petition) does not automatically “lock in” the estate’s outcome if a valid will later appears. Pennsylvania law allows probate records to be corrected in certain situations, and it also protects good-faith actions taken before the change—both of which can matter a lot if assets have already been collected, sold, or distributed.

The Statute

The primary law governing this issue is 20 Pa.C.S. § 3138.

This statute provides that if a later will or codicil is submitted for probate within three months of death (after an earlier instrument was already probated), the Register of Wills can reopen the probate record (with notice) and amend it to reflect the later instrument.

Related timing and finality rules can also come into play, including that a will may be offered for probate at any time, but there are important consequences for late probate in real estate situations. See 20 Pa.C.S. § 3133.

Why You Should Speak with an Attorney

While the statutes provide the general framework, applying them to your situation is rarely simple—especially if you already signed documents or the estate has started distributing property. Legal outcomes often depend on:

• Strict Deadlines: If the will is found quickly, different rules may apply than if it surfaces months (or years) later. Pennsylvania law specifically addresses a “within three months” scenario for certain later-instrument situations. See 20 Pa.C.S. § 3138.
• Burden of Proof: The person presenting the will typically must prove it is valid and properly executed, and disputes can arise over authenticity, revocation, or whether the document is the decedent’s final will.
• Exceptions and Damage Control: If an administrator already acted and third parties relied on those actions, Pennsylvania law can protect good-faith administration and good-faith dealings with the personal representative—even if a will is later probated. See 20 Pa.C.S. § 3329. That can affect whether assets can be clawed back and from whom.

Also, what you signed matters. Some documents are routine consents; others can waive rights, shorten disputes, or approve distributions. An attorney can review the paperwork and the newly found will to assess exposure, options, and whether court action is needed to correct the estate administration.

If you want more background on will-related probate issues, you may find these helpful: What Is the Deadline to Contest a Will in Pennsylvania? and What Can I Do in Pennsylvania If I Can’t Find the Original Will?.

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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.