What do I have to file in order to get the money that was left to me by my late mother?
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What do I have to file in order to get the money that was left to me by my late mother?
I am my mother’s POA and also the payee for her bank account. She had made a home typed Will and had it notorized. She listed that small belongings go to my siblings, then stated that I receive what’s left in the bank account. There are no outstanding bills to pay. Do I have to file or do anything to have the money left?
Asked on June 9, 2015 under Estate Planning, Maine
Answers:
Christine Socrates / The Law Office of Christine Sabio Socrates, Attorney At Law
Answered 8 years ago | Contributor
Your mother's will should be filed at probate court and an estate opened if the bank account is only in her name alone. If it is already held jointly with you or it is payable on death to you, you may not need to open an estate unless their are other assets that need to be probated. If the amount is a smaller amount, a release of assets may be done as opposed to a full estate.
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