When a loved one passes away, many families are unsure what happens next. While emotions are high, there are also legal and financial steps that must be followed before any inheritance is distributed. Understanding the process can help reduce confusion during an already difficult time.

After death, the estate enters an administrative phase. If there is a will, the person named as executor is responsible for managing the estate. If there is no will, the court appoints an administrator. One of the first steps is identifying and securing assets such as bank accounts, property, vehicles, and investments.

Next, outstanding debts and taxes must be addressed. Creditors are notified, and valid claims are paid from the estate. This step often surprises heirs, as inheritances cannot be distributed until obligations are resolved. Even when everything is straightforward, this phase can take months.

If the estate goes through probate, the court oversees the process to ensure everything is handled correctly. Probate timelines vary by state and by the complexity of the estate. During this time, beneficiaries often find themselves waiting without access to funds they were counting on.

This waiting period can create financial strain, especially when heirs are dealing with living expenses, legal fees, or unexpected costs. Many beneficiaries contact Approved Inheritance Cash during this stage to better understand their options while the estate is being settled.