Creditor Claims Management

The Creditor Claims Process

Notice to Creditors

Oklahoma law requires the personal representative to notify creditors that probate has been opened. This includes:

• Known creditors – Direct notice to creditors we know about
• Unknown creditors – Published notice in a newspaper

Proper notice starts the clock on the creditor claim period. Mistakes here can extend the estate's liability unnecessarily.

The Claim Period

Creditors have 2 months from receiving notice to file claims. After this period, claims are generally barred. This limited window protects the estate and allows administration to proceed efficiently.

Claim Evaluation

As personal representative, we evaluate each claim:

• Is the claim valid and properly documented?
• Was it filed within the required time period?
• Is the amount correct?
• Are there defenses (already paid, statute of limitations)?

Claim Payment

Valid claims are paid according to Oklahoma's priority order. If the estate has sufficient assets, all claims are paid in full. If not, higher-priority claims are paid first.

Oklahoma's Priority Order for Claims

1. Administration costs and attorney fees
2. Funeral expenses (up to $1,500)
3. Family allowances
4. Debts due the United States
5. Last illness medical expenses
6. Debts due the State of Oklahoma
7. All other claims

Why Professional Management Matters

Protecting Beneficiaries

We ensure only valid, timely claims are paid. Improper payments reduce what beneficiaries receive and can create personal liability for the personal representative.

Rejecting Invalid Claims

Having legal expertise allows us to evaluate claims critically. We don't simply pay everything that's submitted—we verify legitimacy.

Handling Disputed Claims

When claims are rejected, creditors may challenge the decision. As a professional administrator, we can defend rejections in court without incurring additional legal costs.