Probate claims are a reality for banks and financial institutions handling deceased customers' debts. In the U.S., nearly three-quarters of Americans die with debt, with an average balance of $61,000. When an estate is opened, creditors must act quickly to recover what is owed.
However, in an effort to maximize distributions to heirs, executors often reject creditor claims. Many creditors, instead of contesting these rejections, simply walk away, which leaves significant recoveries uncollected. In fact, over 10% of all our probate claims are rejected, representing more than $8.9 million in claims. Clearly, giving up too soon means leaving real money on the table.
Don’t Accept “No” at Face Value
A formal rejection from an executor is not the end of the road. In many cases, the rejection is a procedural step that forces creditors to take further action if they want to be paid. With the right follow-up, investigation, and legal action, a rejected claim can often turn into an approved payment or settlement.
Based on recent data, 1,151 claims out of 10,891 were rejected, but we don’t allow the estate to rest on that denial to do away with the issue. Weltman seeks to take action on each rejection we receive to make sure estates are paying what they are required to pay according to the probate statutes. This helps us establish a reputation among regular estate filers to be able to keep these rejection numbers as low as possible. Weltman is often contacted by estate representatives seeking to pay claims instead of rejecting them simply because of this reputation. How much more could be collected if creditors took similar steps to challenge rejections?
That’s where Weltman comes in. Our team specializes in probate collections and can help determine whether your rejected claim should be pursued. Do not leave money on the table; send your rejected claims to Weltman for recovery.
Should You Challenge a Rejected Claim?
Before walking away from a rejected probate claim, consider the following:
- Does the estate have assets?
- Executors may claim an estate has no assets, but that is not always true. A closer look can reveal otherwise.
- Even if formal probate inventories are not yet available, there are ways to assess the estate’s financial position.
- Are you running out of time?
- Probate deadlines vary by jurisdiction, but most require creditors to act within 30–90 days of rejection.
- Once the deadline passes, the claim is permanently barred.
- Does it make financial sense to pursue?
- If an estate has assets, a strategic approach can turn a rejection into a recovery.
- In some cases, even the threat of litigation can lead to a settlement.
Why Experience Matters
Determining whether to pursue a rejected claim requires skill and knowledge of probate procedures. Estate research, legal filings, and negotiation strategies can make all the difference in whether a claim gets paid or written off.
Rather than letting valuable claims slip away, Weltman provides the due diligence, legal expertise, and negotiation power to maximize your recoveries.
To quote an attorney who regularly represents decedents in estates that we encounter, “If you (we) get a claim from WWR, (we) don’t reject it. We are paying. They know what they are doing.”
Conclusion: Don’t Walk Away Without a Second Look
If a probate claim is rejected, do not assume that means there are no assets or no path to recovery. Many creditors walk away too soon, leaving money uncollected simply because they did not take the next step.
Before abandoning a claim, consult with Weltman to determine whether the estate can pay. If it can, we will fight to ensure your claim is recognized. To discuss your rejected probate claims and/or learn more about Weltman’s probate recovery solutions, connect with Attorney Matt Pomy and Probate Manager Michelle Moore at any time.
This blog is not a solicitation for business, and it is not intended to constitute legal advice on specific matters, create an attorney-client relationship or be legally binding in any way.
