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Like all states, Pennsylvania recognizes formally executed wills and living trusts as valid estate planning tools. Unusually, Pennsylvania does not require witnesses for a will to be valid—only a written document signed by the testator at the end, and adding a notarized self-proving affidavit can streamline the probate process later.

Financial powers of attorney here require both two witnesses and a notary, making Pennsylvania one of the stricter states for these documents. Plan to execute yours at a bank or attorney's office where you can satisfy all requirements at once.

If you die without a will in Pennsylvania, your heirs must survive you by at least 5 days to inherit anything. This "survival period" exists to prevent property from passing through multiple estates in quick succession when family members die close together in time, such as in an accident. The amount a surviving spouse inherits without a will depends on whether your parents are still alive. If they are, your spouse may have to share the estate with them—a result that surprises many people and underscores why having a will matters.

Unlike states with formal independent administration statutes (such as California and Texas), Pennsylvania doesn't offer a simplified procedure for executors to petition for reduced court oversight. However, executors typically have statutory authority to manage routine estate matters. For families looking to avoid probate court involvement entirely, a revocable living trust remains the most reliable option.