700-00020PESM Guidance: Small Estate Administration Bond (Vermont)

The 700-00020PESM Small Estate Administration Bond form is essential in the probate process when an individual is appointed as an executor or administrator for a small estate in Vermont. This form typically becomes necessary after the probate process is initiated and the court has issued letters of administration, appointing someone to manage the estate. - The request or grant of Letters of Administration, which officially authorizes one to manage a decedent's estate, usually precedes the need for this bond form. - Prior to this, a probate petition or small estate affidavit may have been filed to initiate the probate process, particularly for estates that qualify as 'small' under Vermont law. - A detailed inventory of the estate’s assets should have been completed and filed. Once these steps are completed, the 700-00020PESM form ensures the appointed executor or administrator will dutifully manage the estate according to Vermont's legal requirements, fulfilling obligations such as paying debts, distributing assets, and complying with court orders. This bond serves as a financial assurance, protecting the estate’s beneficiaries and creditors during the estate administration period.