The primary function of estate administration includes which of the following?

The primary function of estate administration involves managing the estate of a deceased person, which includes ensuring the proper identification, valuation, and distribution of their assets. Identifying assets is crucial because it establishes the basis for what will be distributed to heirs and beneficiaries under the terms of the will or intestate succession laws. This process involves compiling a comprehensive inventory of all property owned by the decedent, which may encompass real estate, financial accounts, personal belongings, and any business interests.

While settling debts, determining heirs, and creating new wills are all aspects of estate management, they serve secondary roles to the process of inventorying and assessing the estate's assets. Settling debts is contingent upon the assets identified, as the estate must have enough value to cover these obligations. Determining heirs is important but follows the assessment of assets, as knowing the beneficiaries and how the assets align with legal distribution is key. Creating new wills is not part of administration but rather a function performed during the lifetime of the individual; a will is made to provide instructions on asset distribution and does not form a part of the estate administration process itself.