When can a probate be closed? Written By Sandra McCarthy Founder, A People’s Choice Fact Checked The probate estate may be closed any time after the expiration of the creditor’s claim period (four months from the date letters are issued) if all debts and taxes have been paid or sufficiently secured, and no problems prevent the estate from being closed. In order to close the estate, the personal representative must file a Petition for Final Distribution. If the court approved the Petition, the estates assets can be distributed to the heirs or beneficiaries. By Sandra McCarthy|April 15th, 2016|Probate Column 2, Probate FAQs|Comments Off on When can a probate be closed?