Free Resource Printable Checklist

Probate Document Checklist What You'll Need

Going through probate means a lot of paperwork. This checklist will help you gather everything you need to sell a probate property in Connecticut. Check off items as you go — and if you need help with any step, Robert is just a phone call away.

Tip: Bookmark this page and check back as you progress through probate. New items may become relevant at different stages.

Court & Legal Documents

Original Last Will and Testament (if one exists) Death Certificate (certified copy — you'll need multiple) Petition for Probate (filed with New Haven Probate Court) Letters Testamentary or Letters of Administration (court-issued authority) Court Order Authorizing Sale of Property Probate Court Inventory of Assets Notice to Creditors (published per CT requirements) Final Decree of Distribution

Property & Title Documents

Property Deed (current recorded deed) Title Report / Title Search Property Survey (if available) Current Property Tax Bill and Payment History Outstanding Liens or Judgments (identified during title search) HOA Documents (if applicable — CC&Rs, bylaws, current account status) Property Insurance Policy (homeowner's — keep active through closing) Environmental Reports (lead paint disclosure for pre-1978 homes, CT-specific)

Financial & Tax Documents

Federal Estate Tax Return (IRS Form 706 — if estate exceeds threshold) Connecticut Estate Tax Return (if applicable) Connecticut Estate Tax ID Number Income Tax Returns for the Decedent (final year) Income Tax Returns for the Estate (if rental income or gains) Property Tax Clearance / Tax Lien Release CT Conveyance Tax Forms (for the sale closing) Records of Estate Expenses and Receipts

Property Condition & Disclosure

Property Condition Assessment CT Property Condition Disclosure Form (required for residential sales) Lead-Based Paint Disclosure (for pre-1978 properties — federal requirement) Known Defects or Issues Documentation Recent Appraisal (if obtained) Home Inspection Report (if obtained) Repair Estimates (if major work needed) Photographs of Property (current condition — interior and exterior)

Personal Representative / Executor Documents

Valid Government-Issued Photo ID Proof of Appointment as Executor / Personal Representative Bond (if required by the court) Estate Bank Account Information Authorization to Act on Behalf of Estate (if using an attorney)

Closing & Sale Documents

Purchase and Sale Agreement (executed contract) Buyer's Pre-Approval or Proof of Funds Closing Disclosure / Settlement Statement Title Insurance Policy (owner's and lender's) Transfer Tax Declarations Utility Account Transfers or Closures Keys, Garage Remotes, Access Codes Final Utility Readings

Optional but Helpful

Property Listing Agreement with Real Estate Agent Marketing Materials and Professional Photos Pre-Sale Repair/Improvement Receipts Estate Sale or Cleanout Documentation Power of Attorney (if any heir is represented by another) Trust Documents (if property was in a trust)

Not sure where to start?

That's completely normal.

Robert Clarke has guided dozens of families through this exact process across Connecticut. Every document on this list has a story and a timeline — and Robert can help you understand what to tackle first.

Contact Robert for a Free Consultation

Or call directly: (203) 936-9004