Basic Guide for Executors and Administrators

CONTACT:

• Social Security
• Employer re: pay, benefits, pension, insurance
• Veteran's Administration, if deceased was a veteran

GATHER:

• Original Death Certificate
• Insurance Policies
• Deed/Lease
• Bank Accounts
• Stocks, etc.
• Credit Cards
• Loans, etc.
• Mail
• Will

If the decedent HAD A WILL and you are named the Executor...

• Call the Surrogate Court for instructions and to set up an appointment.
• You will be asked to complete Worksheet #1 and return it (by mail, fax, or email) to this court. Click here to download Worksheet #1.
• Fax or mail Worksheet #1 to this office with a COPY of the Death Certificate and Will.
• At the time of your scheduled appointment, present the certified Death Certificate AND originally signed Will. Bring cash or check for the fee.
• Review and sign documents.
• Upon final review by the Surrogate, completed documents will be issued.
• Click here for our helpful and informative document, Responsibilities of Executor.

If the decedent DID NOT HAVE A WILL and you are one of the next of kin...

• You will need to seek appointment of Administration. Call the Surrogate Court for instructions and to set up an appointment.
• You will be asked to complete Worksheet #2. Click here to download Worksheet #2.
• Fax or mail Worksheet #2 to this office with a COPY of the Death Certificate. (You will present the original, certified Death Certificate at the time of your appointment.)
• At your scheduled appointment present the original Death Certificate along with cash or check for the fee. A Bond may be required.
• Review and sign documents.
• Upon final review by the Surrogate, completed documents will be issued.
• Click here for our helpful and informative document, Guidelines for Administrator.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• What is a Will?
  A signed and witnessed document which, after your death, directs how your individually owned property will be distributed and who will be in charge of your property until it is distributed.
   
• Do I need a Will?
  The most important advantage of having a Will is that YOU direct exactly how your property should be distributed rather than having your property distributed according to the laws of the State of New Jersey.
   
• How do I make a Will?
  A Will must be prepared within the legal technicalities prescribed by law so that it leaves no question regarding your intention. Many times a simple Will drawn by a layman raises questions of interpretation which must be resolved by expensive court proceedings. Your attorney might best be able to suggest ways of better implementing your intention.

Do you have additional questions? If so, click here for more Helpful Information.

 

 

 

 

 

When a Loved One Passes, Where do I Start?

The emotions of losing a family member or friend can be overwhelming, especially for the person selected to handle the affairs of the deceased.

The Surrogate Court will guide you through the necessary procedure of Probate or Administration with sensitivity, respect and caring.

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3 High Street, Suite 1, Newton, New Jersey 07860  (In the Historic Sussex County Court House)   Phone (973)579-0920   Fax (973)579-0909
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