An audit is scheduled when beneficiaries do not agree on how an estate should be distributed or there are questions regarding the estate. An accounting is filed with the court to obtain an audit hearing. The accounting should detail all the assets and debts of the estate to the penny. This is to ensure the executor or administrator properly handled the estate. A copy of the will, if applicable, should be attached along with proof of publication of notice of letters granted. Also, confirmation that notice of the audit was sent to all interested parties prior to the audit date is required.

At the time of the audit, if there are still objections or concerns, the matter will be scheduled for further proceedings to resolve the outstanding issues. If there are small issues or discrepancies, they can potentially be addressed that day so the estate can be resolved. If there are no objections or questions at the time of the audit, the executor or administrator should present a petition for adjudication to the court. The petition will include the proposed distribution of the estate and whether any reserve is being held for future expenses.  By April M. Townsend