Dying leaves behind important legal tasks that don’t go away with them. If you are named to handle a deceased person’s estate in Georgia, you need the right paperwork to move forward with probate. Without these documents, the court won’t give you the authority to manage bank accounts, sell property, or pay bills. Having the correct list ready saves time and stops delays while you navigate a difficult period.

What is the very first document I need?

The most critical piece of paper is the original death certificate. You cannot get started without it. Most probate courts require at least ten certified copies for different institutions. Banks, insurance companies, and social security administration offices will all ask for their own copy. You can usually order these through the funeral home or directly from the county vital records office. Make sure the name matches exactly how it appears on the will or trust to avoid confusion later.

Does the original will count as a primary document?

If the decedent left a last will and testament, you must bring the original to the clerk. Copies are generally not accepted unless there is a good reason for the original to be missing. If you do not have it, the court might require an affidavit explaining its absence before proceeding. You will file a petition to admit the will, which starts the formal administration process. Some people skip this step because they want to avoid probate entirely, but if the estate size hits certain thresholds, the court gets involved regardless.

Do I need to show proof of my authority?

Yes. As soon as the judge signs your appointment, you receive Letters Testamentary or Letters of Administration. These acts as your ID card for financial institutions. While you gather the initial paperwork, you also need to understand the ongoing duties that come with the job. For a detailed breakdown of your duties during this time, see the executor responsibilities guide. This ensures you do not miss any deadlines while handling the documents.

What lists of assets does the court expect?

You are responsible for taking stock of everything the person owned. This involves creating an inventory schedule that lists real estate, vehicles, bank accounts, and personal property. Sometimes, you need professional appraisals for significant items like jewelry or art. The value determines whether specific tax filings are necessary. If the estate qualifies for a simplified procedure due to size, fewer documents might apply, but checking the required forms list first helps clarify your specific situation.

Are there tax documents I must submit immediately?

Tax clearance is often the hardest part of closing an estate. Before you distribute money to heirs, the Department of Revenue may require you to file final income tax returns. They issue a tax release showing you owe nothing. You will also need to file a federal estate tax return if the value exceeds the exemption amount. Skipping this check can lead to personal liability issues for the executor down the road. Learning the legal requirements for estate administration protects you from unexpected liabilities.

How do I notify creditors officially?

Georgia law requires you to publish a notice to creditors in a local newspaper. You then mail copies to known creditors listed on the debt schedules. This starts a clock during which they can make claims against the estate. Ignoring this step invalidates the process. The filing procedures page outlines the specific timelines for publishing and sending these notices correctly.

• Death Certificate: Get at least 10 certified copies.
• Last Will and Testament: Locate the physical original.
• Inventory Schedule: List all assets with approximate values.
• Petition for Probate: Completed forms for the Superior Court.
• Affidavit of Domicile: Proof of where the person lived.
• Tax Release: Confirmation from state authorities.

Missing a single signature or date on a form can send your application back. Courts are strict about formatting even if the information inside is correct. It is worth getting help if you find yourself stuck on complex forms. The state provides sample versions, but local clerks often have preferred formats. For additional resources on filling out the paperwork, visit the Georgia Superior Court Clerks' Cooperative Authority.

Keep all receipts for expenses paid out of pocket by you personally. You can get reimbursed later, but you must prove the spending was for the estate. Organize everything in a dedicated folder. Label envelopes clearly so you can produce them instantly when requested by the judge.