What to Do When Someone Dies in Pennsylvania
A complete guide to death certificates, probate, estate taxes, and funeral costs in Pennsylvania. Everything you need to know about handling a death in the state of Pennsylvania.
Quick Facts: Pennsylvania
Death Certificates in Pennsylvania
Cost Per Certified Copy
The first certified copy costs $20. Additional copies cost $9 each. See our county-by-county guide for local vital records offices.
How Many to Order
We recommend ordering 10 to 15 copies. Banks, insurance companies, the Social Security Administration, the DMV, employers, and other institutions typically require original certified copies. Ordering extras upfront saves time and money compared to requesting more later. Ten copies in Pennsylvania would cost approximately $101.
Where to Order
Death certificates in Pennsylvania are issued by the Pennsylvania Department of Health, Bureau of Health Statistics. Your funeral home will typically order the initial copies for you as part of their services. Learn about what funeral homes charge and your rights under the FTC Funeral Rule.
Visit Pennsylvania Department of Health, Bureau of Health StatisticsFiling Deadline
In Pennsylvania, a death must be registered within 3 days. The funeral home or attending physician typically handles the filing. Use our deadline tracker to see all critical filing deadlines.
Probate in Pennsylvania
Small Estate Threshold
Estates valued under $50,000 may qualify for simplified probate or a small estate affidavit. Small estates under $50,000 may use simplified procedures. Read our full probate guide for step-by-step instructions on navigating the process.
Probate Court
Probate in Pennsylvania is handled by the Register of Wills (Orphans' Court for disputes).
Visit Register of Wills (Orphans' Court for disputes) websiteTypical Timeline
Probate in Pennsylvania typically takes 6-12 months. The timeline depends on the size and complexity of the estate, whether anyone contests the will, and the court's caseload. Use our cost calculator to estimate total probate and estate settlement costs.
Small Estate Affidavit
If the estate is valued below the small estate threshold of $50,000, you may be able to use a small estate affidavit instead of going through formal probate. This is a simplified process that allows heirs to collect assets by presenting a sworn statement to banks and other institutions. Waiting periods and specific requirements vary, so check with the Register of Wills (Orphans' Court for disputes) in your county for exact procedures.
Uniform Probate Code State
Pennsylvania has adopted the Uniform Probate Code (UPC), which standardizes and simplifies probate procedures. UPC states generally offer more streamlined processes, including simplified procedures for small estates and informal probate options.
Estate and Inheritance Tax in Pennsylvania
State Inheritance Tax
Pennsylvania has an inheritance tax. Pennsylvania has a flat inheritance tax: 0% for surviving spouses, 4.5% for lineal descendants and ancestors, 12% for siblings, 15% for all other beneficiaries. No exemption threshold; the tax applies to all inherited assets. Unlike estate tax (which is paid by the estate), inheritance tax is paid by the individual beneficiaries. The rate usually depends on the relationship between the beneficiary and the deceased. Spouses are typically exempt, and close relatives usually pay lower rates than more distant relatives or non-relatives. Learn more in our estate tax guide.
Federal Estate Tax
Regardless of state taxes, the federal estate tax applies to estates exceeding $13.61 million (2024 threshold). The federal estate tax return (Form 706) is due 9 months after the date of death. Most estates fall well below this threshold and owe no federal estate tax.
Key Things to Know in Pennsylvania
Uniform Probate Code
Pennsylvania follows the Uniform Probate Code, which provides a standardized and generally more efficient probate process. Benefits include informal probate options, simplified small estate procedures, and consistent rules for intestate succession (when someone dies without a will).
Pennsylvania-Specific Notes
Pennsylvania has one of the most significant inheritance taxes in the country. Unlike most states, the tax applies from the first dollar with no exemption threshold (except for the surviving spouse, who pays 0%). The 4.5% rate on children and 15% rate on unrelated beneficiaries can add up quickly on larger estates.
Debt After Death in Pennsylvania
In Pennsylvania, debts are generally paid from the estate before assets are distributed to heirs. Family members are not personally responsible for the deceased's debts unless they co-signed or are a surviving spouse in certain circumstances. Learn more about debt after death and medical debt.
Funeral Costs in Pennsylvania
These are median costs in Pennsylvania. Actual costs vary significantly based on the funeral home, location within the state, and services selected. Under the FTC Funeral Rule, funeral homes must provide itemized pricing when you ask. You are not required to purchase a package and can choose individual services. Read more about the true cost of dying in America.
Death Certificate Offices in Pennsylvania
Find your county's vital records office below for local death certificate costs, contact information, and ordering instructions. You can also order from the state vital records office (Pennsylvania Department of Health, Bureau of Health Statistics).
County not listed? Order from the Pennsylvania Department of Health, Bureau of Health Statistics or browse all 100 counties.
Major Cities in Pennsylvania
Next Steps and Resources
Step-by-Step Guide
Complete walkthrough of everything to do after a death
Master Checklist
Track every task from day one through estate closure
Social Security Benefits
Survivors benefits, lump sum payment, how to notify SSA
Veterans Benefits
VA burial benefits, survivor pensions, and claims
Document Checklist
Every document you need to gather and file
Grief Support
Counseling, support groups, and crisis hotlines
Frequently Asked Questions About Death in Pennsylvania
What is the first thing to do when someone dies in Pennsylvania?
Contact emergency services (911) or the funeral home. If the death was expected under hospice care, call the hospice provider. The funeral home will transport the body and begin the process of obtaining death certificates from the Pennsylvania Department of Health, Bureau of Health Statistics. Within the first few days, you should also notify close family, secure the deceased's home and valuables, and locate important documents like the will, insurance policies, and financial records. Our step-by-step guide walks you through each step.
Do I need a lawyer for probate in Pennsylvania?
Not always. If the estate is under $50,000, you may be able to use a small estate affidavit and avoid formal probate entirely. For larger or more complex estates, hiring a probate attorney is generally recommended, especially if there are disputes, real estate in multiple states, or business assets involved. Probate in Pennsylvania is handled through the Register of Wills (Orphans' Court for disputes).
How much does a funeral cost in Pennsylvania?
The median cost of a funeral with burial in Pennsylvania is $8,900. Cremation averages $6,600. Currently, 54% of Pennsylvania residents choose cremation. Under the FTC Funeral Rule, funeral homes must provide itemized pricing. See our funeral costs guide for tips on reducing costs and understanding your rights.
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Get Your Free Personalized GuideRelated Guides
Probate Guide
How probate works, when you can skip it, and what it costs in your state.
Estate Tax
Federal and state estate tax thresholds, exemptions, and filing deadlines.
Funeral Costs
Average funeral costs by type and practical ways to reduce expenses.
Death Certificates
Find your county vital records office, costs, and ordering instructions.
Social Security
Survivors benefits, the lump-sum death payment, and how to notify SSA.
Master Checklist
Track every task from day one through closing the estate.