Settling an Estate can be a challenging financial and tax exercise and so a certified public accountant (CPA) is typically hired to help.

Though they are not required by law, they can help provide expertise and oversight to an Executor, Administrator or surviving family, as well as confidence that the Estate will be settled properly.

It's best to choose an accountant who specializes in Estate Settlement and Estate Tax practices, and is licensed in the state where the deceased lived because they will be more familiar with local laws and procedures.

Accountants are typically paid by the Estate, not by surviving family members or the Executor.

Review items in the Finalize Probate and Close the Estate section of the checklists for more information on final payments.

And review the links below to search for local accountants for hire.