I live in a different state than the deceased

You can almost always serve as executor of a parent's estate from another state. A few states impose restrictions on non-resident executors, and probate is filed in the decedent's state — not yours. Here's how to do it without flying back every other week.

Where probate happens

Probate is filed in the county where the decedent lived at the time of death. That's the court that has jurisdiction.

If they owned real estate in another state, you may also need an ancillary probate in that state for the real estate.

What you can usually do remotely

File the probate petition (most courts e-file).

Notify creditors and beneficiaries.

Open and operate the estate bank account (the bank typically allows by mail or remote with proper documentation).

Manage tax filings.

Communicate with attorneys, realtors, and CPAs by email and phone.

What may need an in-person trip

Initial probate hearing in some courts (waivable in others).

Visiting and securing the home, especially before any sale.

Inventory and clear-out — though estate-sale and cleanout companies can act on your authority.

Court-required mediation in contested matters.

Non-resident executor restrictions

Some states limit who can serve as executor when they live out of state. Common variations: requiring a bond even when the will waives it, requiring a co-executor who lives in-state, or requiring registration with the court.

Confirm the rules with the probate court or a probate attorney in the decedent's state before you commit to serving.

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