Ideally, no distributions to the beneficiaries under the will should be make until the estate is closed and closing letters received from the Internal Revenue Service and the State Tax Commission if estate tax returns were filed. This is not always possible, particularly in light of the fact that it generally takes a minimum of nine months to get a closing letter from the IRS. Beneficiaries are usually not that patient. The earliest an executor can close an estate is after the time to probate claims has expired and no claims have been probated. This is generally possible in estates that dont require estate tax returns, particularly when surviving spouse is the sole beneficiary.
After the time for probating claims against the estate has expired and estate taxes have been paid, a partial distribution to the beneficiaries may be in order, particularly if there are no unpaid claims outstanding against the estate and the closing attorney is comfortable that the estate tax return will be accepted by the IRS as filed. In any event the executor and closing attorney should hold back enough cash from the distribution to pay for the remaining expenses of administration and to pay for any estate taxes that may be assessed by the IRS.
The New Hampshire Petition for Partial and Early Distribution of Estate is a legal document that allows beneficiaries or heirs of an estate to request the distribution of a portion of the estate assets before the final settlement. This petition can be filed in the probate court to expedite the process, especially when there is an immediate need for financial support or when the estate administration is taking an extended period. In New Hampshire, there are various types of Petitions for Partial and Early Distribution of Estate that serve different purposes: 1. Petition for Partial Distribution: This type of petition is filed when the beneficiaries require the immediate distribution of a specific asset or monetary value from the estate. It may be requested in situations where urgent financial needs arise, such as paying medical bills, funeral expenses, or outstanding debts. 2. Petition for Early Distribution: This petition enables beneficiaries to obtain an early distribution of their inheritance, bypassing the regular probate process. It may be sought if the estate administration is delayed, protracted, or if there are disputes or complications hampering the timely resolution of the estate settlement. 3. Petition for Partial and Early Distribution: This type of petition combines both partial and early distribution requests. It allows beneficiaries to receive a portion of their rightful share before the final probate settlement, giving them relief from the prolonged administrative process. The New Hampshire Petition for Partial and Early Distribution of Estate requires a comprehensive filing procedure, including providing legal documentation supporting the need for early or partial distribution. These documents typically include a detailed inventory of the decedent's assets, an explanation of the reasons for the petition, and an estimation of the fair value of the requested distribution. Additionally, it is crucial to establish that the estate will still be able to satisfy all outstanding obligations and debts even after the requested distribution. Overall, the New Hampshire Petition for Partial and Early Distribution of Estate provides a legal avenue for beneficiaries to access their inheritance promptly. However, it is essential to consult with an attorney experienced in New Hampshire probate law to ensure compliance with the relevant regulations and requirements to avoid potential legal complications or delays in the estate settlement process.