Massachusetts § 16 - Register; copies of certain papers; mailing to commissioner of revenue

Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 16 — Register; copies of certain papers; mailing to commissioner of revenue, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 16. Register; copies of certain papers; mailing to commissioner of revenue

Section 16. The register shall, except as herein provided, send by mail to the commissioner of revenue a copy of every inventory and appraisal filed in his court by an executor, administrator or trustee, within thirty days after the filing of the same. The register shall also, within the same period, send by mail to said commissioner a copy of the will of the decedent, if such has been allowed by the probate court. The register shall also furnish such copies of papers in his office as the commissioner shall require, and shall furnish information as to the records and files in his office in such form as the commissioner may require. A refusal or neglect by the register so to send a copy of such inventory and appraisal or to furnish such copies or information shall be a breach of his official bond; but the commissioner may excuse him from sending copies of inventories and of wills of estates no part of which, in his judgment, appears to be subject to a tax under chapter sixty-five or chapter sixty-five C. If an executor, administrator or trustee fails to file said inventory and appraisal within three months from the date of his appointment, the register shall within thirty days after the expiration thereof notify the commissioner of such failure.

Source: official Massachusetts text · Last verified 2026-08-27

Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 16

What does Massachusetts General Laws § 16 cover?

Section 16 ("Register; copies of certain papers; mailing to commissioner of revenue") is part of the Massachusetts General Laws, the codified statutory law of Massachusetts. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.

How do I cite Massachusetts § 16?

A common citation format is "Massachusetts General Laws § 16" (Massachusetts). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.

Is this the official text of Massachusetts law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Massachusetts official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Massachusetts attorney.

How does Massachusetts § 16 apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Massachusetts can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.

Sources & Verification

Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Massachusetts.