What to Do When Someone Dies in Pennsylvania
When a loved one passes away in Pennsylvania, there are important legal and financial steps to take. Pennsylvania is one of the few states with an inheritance tax, though spouses are exempt and direct descendants pay only 4.5%.
Small Estate Threshold
$50,000
Probate Timeline
6-12 months
Death Certificate
$20 per copy
Order From
Pennsylvania Department of Health
State Estate Tax
NoInheritance Tax
YesUnique to Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania has an inheritance tax - 0% for spouses, 4.5% for lineal descendants, 12% for siblings, 15% for others
Get the death certificate in Pennsylvania
In Pennsylvania, the funeral home files the death certificate with the local registrar and Pennsylvania Department of Health. Certified copies cost $20 each. Request 10-15 certified copies for banks, insurance, and government agencies.
- Funeral home files with local registrar within 10 days
- Request certified copies from local vital records office ($20 each)
- Order from Pennsylvania Department of Health for statewide records
- Allow 4-6 weeks for mail orders
Understand Pennsylvania probate
Pennsylvania probate is handled by the Register of Wills in each county. Small estates under $50,000 may qualify for simplified procedures. Pennsylvania has an inheritance tax: spouses are exempt, direct descendants pay 4.5%, siblings pay 12%, and others pay 15%.
- File original will with Register of Wills within county where deceased lived
- Apply for Letters Testamentary (with will) or Letters of Administration (no will)
- File PA Inheritance Tax Return (REV-1500) within 9 months
- Pay any inheritance tax due (5% discount if paid within 3 months)
Handle financial accounts
Gather information about bank accounts, investment accounts, and retirement funds. Contact each financial institution with a certified death certificate. Pennsylvania law requires inheritance tax on most property transfers to non-spouses.
- List all bank accounts, investments, and retirement funds
- Contact each institution with a certified death certificate
- Note that inheritance tax applies to most transfers (except to spouse)
- Check for beneficiary designations - still subject to inheritance tax
Key deadlines in Pennsylvania
File inheritance tax return
Pennsylvania inheritance tax return (REV-1500) is due within 9 months of death
Pay inheritance tax for discount
Pay within 3 months to receive a 5% discount on tax owed
Frequently asked questions about Pennsylvania estates
Neighboring state guides
Estate laws vary by state. If the deceased owned property in multiple states, you may need to file in each state.
Get your personalized Pennsylvania checklist
Every situation is different. Answer a few questions and get a step-by-step plan specific to your state and circumstances.
Start Free - It Takes 2 MinutesKnow what to do next
Get the first 7 steps to take after someone dies — in order, in plain language.
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.