These thresholds define a "small estate," which can qualify for simplified probate procedures or even avoid probate altogether. Here is a list of the small estate thresholds for various states in the U.S.:
These amounts can change regularly and can, in some cases, apply to the entire estate or just a single asset (e.g., such as a home or car). The information below is our best understanding and MUST be verified by you with an attorney who practices in your state.
Small Estate Thresholds by State (as of the latest information available):
Alabama: $30,000
Alaska: $50,000 (personal property) and $15,000 (vehicles)
Arizona: $75,000 (personal property) and $100,000 (real property)
Arkansas: $100,000
California: $184,500
Colorado: $74,000
Connecticut: $40,000
Delaware: $30,000
District of Columbia: $40,000
Florida: $75,000 or if the decedent has been dead for more than 2 years
Georgia: No specific threshold, depends on circumstances
Hawaii: $100,000 (real property) and $100,000 (personal property)
Idaho: $100,000
Illinois: $100,000
Indiana: $50,000
Iowa: $50,000
Kansas: $40,000
Kentucky: $30,000 (personal property)
Louisiana: $125,000
Maine: $40,000
Maryland: $50,000 (or $100,000 if the spouse is the sole heir)
Massachusetts: $25,000 (excluding the value of a car)
Michigan: $25,000 (excluding the value of a car)
Minnesota: $75,000
Mississippi: $50,000
Missouri: $40,000
Montana: $50,000
Nebraska: $50,000
Nevada: $100,000
New Hampshire: $25,000
New Jersey: $50,000 (spouse) or $20,000 (others)
New Mexico: $50,000
New York: $50,000
North Carolina: $20,000 (or $30,000 if the spouse is the sole heir)
North Dakota: $50,000
Ohio: $35,000 (or $100,000 if the spouse is the sole heir)
Oklahoma: $50,000
Oregon: $275,000 total ($200,000 in real property and $75,000 in personal property)
Pennsylvania: No specific threshold, simplified procedure for small estates
Rhode Island: $15,000
South Carolina: $25,000
South Dakota: $50,000
Tennessee: $50,000
Texas: $75,000
Utah: $100,000
Vermont: $45,000
Virginia: $50,000
Washington: $100,000
West Virginia: $100,000
Wisconsin: $50,000
Wyoming: $200,000
Notes:
The thresholds listed above are based on the total value of the estate’s assets.
These thresholds may change, so it's essential to verify the current limits with local probate courts or an estate attorney.
Simplified probate procedures may still involve some form of court oversight but are generally less burdensome than full probate.
Steps to Take:
Identify Assets: Determine all the assets of the estate and their values.
Check State Law: Verify the current small estate threshold and simplified procedures for the state in which the decedent resided.
File the Necessary Documents: If the estate qualifies as a small estate, file the necessary documents with the probate court to initiate the simplified process.
Consult with an Attorney: Consider consulting with an estate attorney to ensure all legal requirements are met and to streamline the process.
By understanding the small estate thresholds and procedures in your state, you can potentially avoid the lengthy and costly full probate process, ensuring a smoother and faster distribution of the estate’s assets to beneficiaries.