Pennsylvania Probate Form 46

Petition for Distribution

This page is for educational purposes only and is not legal advice. Forms and requirements change frequently — verify the current version with your local probate court or an attorney.

Last updated: June 1, 2026

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About Petition for Distribution

To petition the Orphans' Court for distribution of estate assets to beneficiaries in a testate (with will) estate after accounting and inventory procedures are complete.

When you'd use it: File this petition after the executor has filed the estate account, published required notices, and is ready to distribute assets to heirs and beneficiaries according to the will.

Where to get the official form

The official version of Petition for Distribution is published as a PDF by the Pennsylvania courts. We checked this link and it resolved to a form on an official court or government website — always download the current version directly from the source rather than a third-party copy:

Verified official PDF

Download Petition for Distribution (PDF) →

Source: alleghenycounty.us

Link last checked: May 30, 2026

How to file Petition for Distribution in Pennsylvania

  1. Step 1 — Confirm you have the correct formUse Petition for Distribution (46) when file this petition after the executor has filed the estate account, published required notices, and is ready to distribute assets to heirs and beneficiaries according to the will. Double-check it's the right form for your situation — Pennsylvania probate forms are revised periodically, so verify the name and number against your court's current form list before you start.
  2. Step 2 — Complete every required fieldFill out Petition for Distribution carefully and review it for errors before filing. Probate cases can already take months — a small mistake on the form can set your timeline back further.
  3. Step 3 — Get it notarized or witnessed if requiredSome probate forms must be signed in front of a notary or witnesses. Check the instructions on the form itself, and arrange notarization before you file if it's required.
  4. Step 4 — File it with the correct courtSubmit Petition for Distribution to the probate court or county clerk handling the estate — usually in the Pennsylvania county where the deceased lived. Ask the clerk how they prefer to receive filings (in person, by mail, or e-filing).

Working through the Petition for Distribution? SwiftProbate builds a personalized, step-by-step checklist for settling the estate — so you know which forms to file, in what order, and by when.

Get help with this form

Probate in Pennsylvania

See the full Pennsylvania probate guide for filing deadlines, small-estate options, timelines, costs, and county courthouse details.

Read the Pennsylvania probate guide →

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Petition for Distribution (46)?
To petition the Orphans' Court for distribution of estate assets to beneficiaries in a testate (with will) estate after accounting and inventory procedures are complete. You'd typically use it when file this petition after the executor has filed the estate account, published required notices, and is ready to distribute assets to heirs and beneficiaries according to the will.
Where do I file Petition for Distribution in Pennsylvania?
Probate forms are filed with the probate court or county clerk in the Pennsylvania county where the deceased person lived. Our Pennsylvania probate guide can help you find the right courthouse, filing fees, and local requirements.
Do I need a lawyer to complete Petition for Distribution?
Many people complete probate forms themselves, especially for smaller or uncontested estates. Complex estates may benefit from professional advice. SwiftProbate is an informational tool that helps you understand and organize the process — it is not a law firm and does not provide legal advice.
Is Petition for Distribution available online?
Most Pennsylvania probate forms are published as PDFs by the state courts or the county clerk. You can find the official source linked above.

Other Pennsylvania Probate Forms

Citation and Preliminary DecreeNotice of Intention to Appeal From RegisterRW-6InventoryRW-09Small Estates Affidavit

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Disclaimer: This page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Probate forms and requirements vary by state, county, and individual circumstances, and change over time. Always verify the current form and instructions with your local probate court, and consult a qualified attorney for advice specific to your situation. SwiftProbate is not a law firm and does not provide legal representation.