If you’re handling a Wisconsin estate after someone has passed away, you’ll need to file an inventory of all the deceased person’s assets with the probate court. The Wisconsin estate inventory form template is the standard starting point for that list it’s not a one-size-fits-all document, but a structured way to record property, bank accounts, vehicles, real estate, and other items the estate owns.

What exactly is a Wisconsin estate inventory form template?

It’s a fillable or printable form often based on Wisconsin Circuit Court Form PR-1700 used by personal representatives (executors or administrators) to itemize estate assets as of the date of death. It includes columns for description, value, date of valuation, and whether the asset is probate or non-probate. You don’t file a “template” itself; you use it to prepare the official Wisconsin estate inventory form template required by the court.

When do you need to file it and who uses it?

You must file the completed inventory within 6 months of being appointed as personal representative, unless the court extends the deadline. This applies in formal probate cases, especially when the estate includes real estate, multiple bank accounts, or business interests. Small estates using summary administration may not need a full inventory, but many still choose to complete one for clarity and recordkeeping.

What goes on the form and what doesn’t?

List only assets owned solely by the deceased at the time of death. That includes checking accounts, investment accounts, vehicles titled in their name, and real property they held without joint ownership or transfer-on-death designations. Don’t include life insurance proceeds paid directly to a named beneficiary, retirement accounts with designated beneficiaries, or jointly held property with rights of survivorship those pass outside probate.

Common mistakes people make

  • Estimating values instead of using a reasonable, documented figure (e.g., a recent bank statement or county assessor’s value for real estate)
  • Leaving out digital assets like cryptocurrency wallets or domain names even if small, they belong on the list
  • Confusing “date of death value” with what the asset later sells for the inventory reflects value as of that specific day
  • Filing before gathering supporting documents, which can delay court approval of the final account

How does this connect to other estate paperwork?

The inventory feeds directly into your final account, where you show how each listed asset was distributed or sold. It also supports your probate asset documentation, especially if heirs question valuations or ask for copies of appraisals. If the estate includes inherited real estate, the inventory helps create an accurate inheritance property record sheet. For ongoing management, many personal representatives find the estate administration inventory tool helpful to track changes between filing and closing.

Where to get the right version

The Wisconsin Court System provides the official PR-1700 Inventory form for free. Some counties add local instructions check your circuit court’s website. Avoid generic “estate inventory templates” from non-Wisconsin sources: they often miss state-specific requirements like the “non-probate” column or the need to list encumbrances (e.g., mortgages).

Next step: Gather statements, deeds, titles, and appraisals dated as close as possible to the date of death. Then fill out the PR-1700 form listing each asset clearly, assigning a realistic value, and noting how title is held. Keep copies of every supporting document. Once complete, file it with the court and serve a copy on all interested parties, including heirs and creditors.