Work with the executor and a probate or estate attorney on inventorying assets, debts, and beneficiary designations (401(k), IRA, POD/TOD accounts often pass outside the will)
Compiled by the executor or successor trustee, usually with a probate or estate attorney and a CPA.
Some steps differ by region inside the country.
Where
Compiled by the executor or successor trustee, usually with a probate or estate attorney and a CPA.
How
Request a date of death valuation from every bank, brokerage, and retirement plan, not a current balance.
Ask each retirement plan and insurer who the named beneficiary is, in writing.
Get a professional appraisal for real estate, which also establishes the stepped up cost basis for the heirs.
Search state unclaimed property databases for accounts nobody knew about.
What to bring
Date of death statements for every account
Property appraisals or valuations as of the date of death
Beneficiary designation forms for retirement accounts and insurance
The deed for each property and titles for vehicles
Timing
Allow 1 to 3 months. Most states require an inventory to be filed with the court within a set period after letters are issued.
Sources
This is practical information, not legal, medical, or financial advice.