Each estate is different and takes different lengths of time to administer. Also, each state has it's own system of estate administration. While there is some uniformity from state to state, the length of time will depend on which state the estate is.

The Personal Representative or Executor must complete several steps in the estate administration process. Boiled down, these include:

1. Determining the status of the Decedent's Will and making filings as required with the Court.

2. Determining and valuing the estate assets and securing them.

3. Determining the legitimate debts and obligations of the estate.

4. Completing an inventory of the estate and either filing or distributing it as required by state law.

5. Making provision for the necessary tax returns.

6. Collecting any -property or money owed to the Decedent.

7. Determining the proper shares of the estate beneficiaries.

8. Dealing with professionals or other advisers that the Personal Representative determines are necessary to properly handle the estate.

9. Have the Court resolve any disputes with estate creditors or beneficiaries.

10. Arranging for distributions to the beneficiaries, either partial or final.

11. Obtaining all documents and data necessary to close the estate; prepare final accountings and make filings with the Court as required by state law.

These tasks can take different lengths of time in each estate. If you are concerned about a particular estate or your own rights, then you should contact an estate attorney in your area for specific advice.