Job Description

Estate Administration Paralegal

Location: Chicago, Illinois
Schedule: Full-Time | Primarily In-Office with Limited Remote Flexibility
Compensation: Competitive salary based on experience and qualifications

Position Overview

We are seeking an experienced Estate Administration Paralegal to oversee the financial, administrative, and tax-related aspects of estate and trust administration matters. This position is ideal for a seasoned professional with strong accounting and fiduciary administration experience who can independently manage complex estate, trust, and asset administration matters while working closely with attorneys, beneficiaries, financial institutions, and tax professionals.

A significant portion of this role involves assisting with managing the financial affairs (including expense review and bill paying) of trusts and elderly clients.

Responsibilities

• Manage all phases of estate and trust administration, including asset collection, transfer, administration, and distribution.
• Maintain detailed financial records, reconcile accounts, and prepare fiduciary accountings.
• Prepare and coordinate federal and Illinois tax filings, including Forms 1040, 1041, 706, 709.
• Communicate directly with beneficiaries, financial institutions, accountants, and advisors regarding estate and trust matters.
• Assist with probate administration, including preparation of probate filings, Small Estate Affidavits, and related court documents.
• Obtain and manage tax identification numbers and establish estate and trust accounts.

Qualifications

• Several years of estate, trust, probate, fiduciary administration, accounting, or related experience.
• Experience preparing fiduciary, estate, gift, and individual income tax returns.
• Ability to independently manage multiple files and deadlines.
• Excellent organizational, analytical, and communication skills.
• High degree of professional judgment, discretion, and attention to detail.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, Adobe Acrobat, and tax preparation software.

Benefits

• Health Insurance
• Dental Insurance
• Health Savings Account (HSA)
• 401(k) Plan
• Potential Profit Sharing
• Competitive compensation based on experience and qualifications

All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, age, color, sex (including pregnancy), religion, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, military status, genetic information, or any other status protected by applicable laws or regulations. GPAC (Growing People and Companies) is an award-winning search firm specializing in placing quality professionals within multiple industries across the United States since 1990. We are extremely competitive, client-focused and realize that our value is in our ability to deliver the right solutions at the right time.