States / Pennsylvania
After a death in Pennsylvania
Where to look for a will, who to ask and where to search for money in Pennsylvania.
The will
Which court handles probate
The county Register of Wills handles probate and issues letters; Orphans' Court handles related disputes. (Example: York County.)
"The Register of Wills grants this authority in a document called “Letters of Administration”."
What to do with the original will
We couldn't check this rule at an official source, so we won't guess. Ask the probate court clerk in the county where they lived.
Wills deposited during life
York County's Register of Wills says it does not register or retain wills of living persons; originals are kept by the lawyer, a trust-department vault, or the person's safe deposit box. County-specific statement, not a statewide statute.
"“Living” persons do not have their Wills registered or retained by the Register of Wills."
Opening a safe deposit box
A decedent's box may be entered to remove a will and/or burial instructions in the presence of a bank employee. Give the PA Department of Revenue Safe Deposit Box Unit written notice at least 7 days ahead (copy to bank), sign a sworn statement at the bank, and the bank completes Form REV-487; box contents otherwise must be inventoried first.
"must be inventoried before they can be removed."
72 P.S. § 9193 (as cited by York County). Read the source.
Unclaimed money
Pennsylvania Treasury
"This is a free and secure service provided by the Pennsylvania Unclaimed Property Program to claim your lost funds."
Instructions for heirs and estates
Source, checked 2026-10-15.
Small estates
A small estate may be able to skip full probate. What counts differs, so check with the court before you rely on a limit.
Death certificates
undefined
First copy $20.00, more copies in the same order $20.00 each. Applicants must be 18 or older. Listed relatives, estate representatives and people with a documented direct financial interest may qualify; extra documents apply.
Order from the state. Online vendors add fees.
State will and court rules checked 2026-11-06. See how we check facts or report a mistake. This is general information, not legal advice.