Bill > HB1176

This bill makes several changes to Pennsylvania's laws regarding estate succession and handling of deceased individuals' funds. First, it modifies the order of estate inheritance when no surviving spouse exists, introducing a new priority for distributing assets to endowed community funds before defaulting to the Commonwealth. The bill defines "community foundation" and "endowed community fund" with specific criteria, such as having been in existence for at least 10 years, qualifying for federal tax exemption, and maintaining an independent governing body. Additionally, the bill increases the threshold for direct bank payouts to a deceased person's family from $10,000 to $20,000, allowing spouse, children, parents, siblings, or a licensed funeral director to receive funds more easily upon presenting a receipted funeral bill or affidavit. The bill also raises the limit for unclaimed property that the State Treasurer can distribute from $11,000 to $20,000. These changes will take effect in stages, with most provisions becoming active within 60 days of passage, and the unclaimed property provision taking effect in 180 days, aimed at providing more flexible and accessible estate management for families.

Budget and Finance, Justice

https://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billinfo/bill_history.cfm?syear=2025&sind=0&body=H&type=B&bn=1176