How Much Does an Estate Have to Be Worth to Go Through Probate?

Probate is an additional hurdle that an estate must go through before assets can be distributed to the beneficiaries. This can add time and expense for families, as challenges can arise during probate. Many families try to avoid probate through estate planning. Without trusts in place, most estates will need to pass through probate.

Without a trust or proper asset titling, all estates will need to go through some form of probate. If the estate is valued at less than $25,000, it can go through a simplified probate procedure. Small estates involve outlining and proposing the division of property through affidavit, allowing them to skip probate altogether. The normal estate process involves the Personal Representative distributing estate assets after the creditor claim period. Each estate will need to have some procedure involved regardless of the size of the estate, and it takes time.

All estates valued at more than $25,000 must go through the full probate procedure. This includes:

• Opening probate with the Probate Court
• Appointing a personal representative
• Notifying creditors and heirs of the death
• Gathering and valuing the estate’s assets and filing an inventory and appraisement with the court
• Making a final accounting of the estate
• Distributing the assets to the beneficiaries
• Closing the estate

Difficulties may arise at some point during the probate process. It is a worthwhile investment to have a lawyer helping you while the estate goes through probate. This can minimize potential problems and reduce delays.

Columbia, SC Estate Planning Lawyers

Wills and probate can be far less complicated when you have the help of an experienced attorney. Contact Parker Law, LLC online or call us at (803) 784-4203 to schedule your initial consultation.

FAQ