Inventory
A list of the estate's assets and their values, filed with the court or given to the beneficiaries.
What Inventory means in an estate
The personal representative identifies each probate asset and values it as of the date of death. The inventory tells the court, the beneficiaries, and the creditors what is actually in the estate, and it is the baseline every later accounting is measured against. Whether it must be filed with the court or only sent to interested parties, when it is due, and whether a formal appraisal is required vary by state.
How this works in your state
The concept is national, but the forms, procedure names, thresholds, and filing practice vary by state. Open your state glossary and guides to see how inventory is handled where the estate is being settled.
Related terms
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Information current as of April 4, 2026
Settled Estate is not a law firm, and this content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Probate laws and procedures in your state can change. Consult with a qualified attorney for advice specific to your situation. Full disclaimer.