How Long Does Probate Take?

✳️ Alabama (6-18 months)
Alabama’s probate process is usually completed within six to eight months when the will and estate are not contested. When legal disputes occur, like challenges to a will’s validity or unexpected creditor claims, delays frequently push the timeline well beyond a year. How smoothly local probate courts operate and how complex the estate is can both have an impact on how long probate will take. (Alabama Probate Courts)

✳️ Alaska (6-12 months)
Alaska follows the Uniform Probate Code (UPC), which is intended to streamline the probate process, so probate is often concluded within twelve months. Uncomplicated estates with simple distribution requirements tend to move quickly, but estates with significant legal disputes or problems with asset valuation issues frequently run longer. The state’s relatively low population (2024 est. 740,133) and smaller court system can create court scheduling backlogs and other issues, and may affect how quickly the probate process is completed. (Alaska Court System)

✳️ Arizona (9-18 months)
Arizona probate normally takes between nine and about eighteen months. Like other states, however, large or complicated estates typically take longer. Estates with many beneficiaries, substantial assets, difficult-to-resolve debts, or major tax-related issues almost always run longer. Arizona allows informal probate, which expedites the probate process considerably when the estate and heirs are not contested. Formal probate, however, is necessary for most complex or complicated estates, and on a case-by-case basis, can drag on for years. (AZ Courts)

✳️ Arkansas (6-12 months)
In Arkansas, probate usually takes six and twelve months, although, contested estates frequently experience delays. Legal challenges, inheritance disputes, and asset distribution complexities can significantly extend the process. Executors must follow state-specific probate rules that dictate court appearances and filings. Depending on how full the court’s docket is, delays can cause the timeline to exceed the one-year mark. (Arkansas Judiciary)

✳️ California (12-24 months)
❌ While probate advances are available in California, they are unavailable in Monterey County.
California is legendary for its drawn-out probate process, which often takes more than a year. High-value estates, complicated or extensive asset portfolios, disputes and infighting amongst heirs, and court backlogs contribute to delays. Additionally, statutory probate fees—calculated as a percentage of the estate’s value—can become costly, making probate a slow and expensive process. Cases involving real estate or business assets often face the longest delays. (California Courts)

✳️ Colorado (6-12 months)
❌ Immediate inheritance funding is not available in CO
Colorado follows the UPC, which simplifies probate for simple, uncomplicated estates. Most cases conclude within a year, though complications such as legal challenges or hard-to-value assets can extend the duration. If an estate qualifies for informal probate, the process moves faster, but formal probate proceedings require additional court oversight and usually take much longer. (Colorado Judicial Branch)

✳️ Connecticut (12-24 months)
❌ Inheritance advances are not available in CT
Connecticut’s probate process is just slow, requiring up to two years to resolve some estates. The state must thoroughly review all high-value estates and contested wills, which can slow the timeline considerably. In addition, Connecticut levies an estate tax on certain estates, adding another layer of delays to the proceedings. (Connecticut Probate Courts)

✳️ Delaware (6-12 months)
Delaware probate typically closes within six to twelve months, though estates with complicated assets can take longer. Delaware’s probate courts tend to process cases rather quickly, but unusual circumstances, like will contestations or non-cooperating beneficiaries, can create substantial delays. (Delaware Courts)

✳️ Florida (6-12 months)
Florida’s probate system is renowned for its speed and efficiency, with most estates settling within a year. The state offers Summary Administration, which is an expedited probate process for small estates that allows beneficiaries to bypass the standard probate procedure. However, larger estates involving significant property holdings or creditor claims can take much longer. (Florida Courts)

✳️ Georgia (12-24 months)
Probate in Georgia can stretch to two years, particularly for estates facing legal disputes, creditor claims, or unclear and contested wills. The state requires detailed estate administration filings, which can slow proceedings if documentation is incomplete. Large estates with significant real estate holdings will generally experience the longest delays. (Supreme Court of Georgia)

✳️ Hawaii (12-24 months)
Hawaii’s probate process frequently exceeds a year due to state-specific estate laws, potential litigation, and complex property ownership issues. Estates with contested claims or intricate trusts often take two years or longer before final distribution is completed. (Hawaii Probate Rules)

✳️ Idaho (6-12 months)
Probate in Idaho is commonly resolved within six to twelve months, with simple estates clearing the process very quickly. However, complications such as missing and disputed beneficiaries, substantial outstanding debts and creditor issues, or disputes over asset division can prolong the timeline. Idaho probate courts offer informal probate procedures that help expedite uncontested cases. (Idaho Supreme Court)

✳️ Illinois (18-24+ months)
Illinois probate proceedings take up to two years, particularly when an estate includes substantial financial holdings, a contested will or trust, and extensive or unresolved tax liabilities. Illinois law requires creditor notification and estate tax assessments, which typically extend the probate timeline significantly. (Illinois Regional Archives Depository)

✳️ Iowa (18-24+ months)
Probate in Iowa is notoriously slow, lasting up to two years in many cases. Factors such as contested wills, real estate holdings, and inheritance disputes will extend the timeline further. Additionally, court scheduling and estate tax considerations can add months or even years of waiting. (Iowa Judicial Branch)

✳️ Kansas (6-12 months)
Kansas probate normally wraps up within a six-month to one-year timeframe. However, unexpected legal disputes, missing documentation, and creditor claims may add complications. Kansas has simplified probate procedures for qualifying estates, which can shorten the timeline for smaller cases significantly. (Kansas Judicial)

✳️ Kentucky (6-12 months)
Kentucky’s probate process is generally efficient, but contested estates or those involving numerous creditors may take longer. The state requires thorough court filings and creditor notifications, which can impact overall processing speed. (Kentucky Courts)

✳️ Louisiana (12-24 months)
Louisiana’s probate timeline frequently extends beyond a year, particularly in cases involving multiple heirs, complex asset holdings, or disputes over property ownership. Louisiana follows unique succession laws that can further complicate matters. (Louisiana Probate Law Center)

✳️ Maine (9-18 months)
Probate in Maine typically resolves in nine to eighteen months, depending on the nature of the estate. Estates with straightforward distributions usually conclude quickly, while those requiring litigation or facing significant asset valuation issues often take two years or longer. (Maine Probate Court)

✳️ Maryland (12-24+ months)
❌ Inheritance advance loans are not available in MD
Maryland probate often lasts up to two years, especially when estate assets require extensive valuation, involve complex tax considerations, or involvelegal challenges. Maryland’s probate courts oversee complex inheritance cases, which can delay resolution. (Maryland Courts)

✳️ Massachusetts (12-24 months)
Probate in Massachusetts often exceeds a year, especially for estates involving significant financial holdings, business assets, or litigation. While uncontested estates may move quickly, those facing creditor claims or inheritance disputes should expect substantial delays. (Massachusetts Probate Court)

✳️ Michigan (6-12 months)
❌ While probate advances are available in Michigan, they are unavailable in Wayne County.
Michigan probate is generally completed within a year, though contested wills, large estates, and complicated asset transfers will prolong the timeline significantly. Estates with real estate holdings or extensive tax considerations always take longer. (Michigan Probate Courts)

✳️ Minnesota (12-24+ months)
Minnesota probate can take up to two years, particularly when estates contain valuable assets requiring extensive legal review. Disputes among beneficiaries and tax-related issues often push processing past the 2-year mark. (Minnesota Judicial Branch)

✳️ Mississippi (6-12 months)
Mississippi probate typically lasts six months to a year, although large estates with creditor disputes or contested wills can extend beyond this timeframe. The court system prioritizes efficiency, but legal challenges will slow the process significantly. (Mississippi Judiciary)

✳️ Missouri (6-12 months)
Probate in Missouri is usually straightforward and is often completed within one year unless legal disputes arise. In particular, estates with clearly established asset distribution plans move through the courts relatively easily and efficiently, but litigation, beneficiary disputes, and creditor claims will cause substantial delays. (Missouri Courts)

✳️ Montana (6-12 months)
Montana probate commonly takes six months to one year, with contested estates taking longer. Estates with missing beneficiaries, tax delinquencies, or other significant legal challenges should expect extended timelines as courts work through the complexities of asset distribution. (Montana Judicial Branch)

✳️ Nebraska (12-24+ months)
Nebraska’s probate process can be lengthy, often taking one to two years, particularly for estates with substantial assets or legal complications. Beneficiary disputes, challenges with high-value real estate valuations, and complex estate plans frequently experience processing delays beyond the two-year mark. (Nebraska Judicial Branch)

✳️ Nevada (12-24 months)
Probate in Nevada typically takes from one to two years, especially when estates involve significant wealth, multiple beneficiaries, or contested wills. The state allows simplified probate for estates under $300K, but complex cases should expect delays due to court scheduling and required legal procedures. (Nevada State Courts)

✳️ New Hampshire (12-24 months)
❌ Inheritance loans are not available in NH
New Hampshire’s probate process can take up to two years, particularly in situations where disputes arise over asset distribution or creditor claims. Estates involving trusts or businesses often require additional scrutiny, leading to prolonged timelines. (New Hampshire Judicial Branch)

✳️ New Jersey (12-24 months)
❌ While probate advances are available in New Jersey, they are unavailable in Passaic County.
New Jersey probate often extends beyond a year, especially for estates with extensive holdings or contested wills. Cases involving high-value properties or unresolved debts can take longer to finalize due to creditor claims and court-mandated estate reviews. (New Jersey Courts)

✳️ New Mexico (6-12 months)
New Mexico’s probate process is typically completed within a year, with straightforward cases moving quickly through the courts. However, larger estates or those entangled in legal challenges may experience significant delays. The state offers simplified procedures for qualifying estates, reducing overall processing times. (New Mexico Courts)

✳️ New York (12-24 months)
New York probate is notorious for its complexity, often taking one to two years due to extensive estate laws, high-value assets, and court congestion. Disputes over inheritance or unclear estate planning documents can prolong proceedings significantly. (NY Courts)

✳️ North Carolina (6-12 months)
Probate in North Carolina generally concludes within a year, but contested estates or those requiring asset liquidation may take longer. The state’s court system provides streamlined processes for simple estates, but complex cases demand additional legal oversight. (North Carolina Judicial Branch)

✳️ North Dakota (6-12 months)
North Dakota’s probate process is relatively efficient, often wrapping up within a year unless disputes or estate complexities arise. Larger estates with numerous beneficiaries or unresolved debts may require more time for proper distribution. (North Dakota Courts)

✳️ Ohio (9-18 months)
Ohio probate usually falls between nine months and a year and a half, influenced by factors such as estate size, creditor claims, and contested wills. The state enforces strict legal procedures to ensure proper asset distribution, sometimes resulting in extended timelines. (Ohio Judicial System)

✳️ Oklahoma (6-12 months)
Probate in Oklahoma is typically completed within six months to a year, provided the estate is uncomplicated and uncontested. Larger estates with intricate inheritance disputes or tax considerations may take longer to resolve. (Oklahoma Bar Association)

✳️ Oregon (6-12 months)
Oregon’s probate process generally falls within the six-month to one-year range. Estates requiring complex asset division or litigation may experience delays, but the state provides options for expedited proceedings when applicable. (Oregon Judicial Branch)

✳️ Pennsylvania (12-24 months)
❌ While probate advances are available in Pennsylvania, they are unavailable in Northampton County.
Probate in Pennsylvania can take up to two years, particularly for estates facing legal challenges, creditor claims, or unclear estate documentation. The court system requires thorough estate administration procedures, contributing to extended timelines. (Pennsylvania Probate)

✳️ Rhode Island (12-24 months)
Rhode Island probate frequently exceeds a year, especially for estates involving complex trusts, legal disputes, or extensive financial holdings. The state enforces meticulous estate processing laws, which often result in longer case durations. (Rhode Island Probate)

✳️ South Carolina (12-24 months)
❌ While probate advances are available in South Carolina, they are unavailable in Greenville County.
South Carolina’s probate process can range from one to two years, depending on the complexity of the estate and whether disputes arise. Estates with contested wills, extensive holdings, or inheritance disagreements often face prolonged legal battles. (South Carolina Judicial Branch)

✳️ South Dakota (6-12 months)
South Dakota probate typically wraps up within a year, particularly for uncontested estates. However, complex asset divisions and legal challenges can extend proceedings. The state offers simplified probate options for smaller estates, expediting the process when applicable. (South Dakota Probate)

✳️ Tennessee (12-24 months)
Tennessee’s probate process often spans one to two years, especially in cases involving multiple heirs, property disputes, or outstanding debts. The state mandates detailed legal procedures that can prolong estate settlements. (Tennessee Probate Guide)

✳️ Texas (6-12 months)
Texas generally resolves probate cases within a year, with simpler estates moving swiftly through the courts. However, contested wills, creditor claims, or tax considerations may extend proceedings. The state provides alternatives such as independent administration, which can accelerate probate for qualifying estates. (Texas State Law Library)

✳️ Utah (6-12 months)
Probate in Utah typically concludes within six months to a year, though large estates with complex financial arrangements may take longer. Utah courts allow informal probate when all heirs agree, expediting the settlement process significantly. (Utah State Courts)

✳️ Vermont (12-24 months)
❌ While probate advances are available in Vermont, they are unavailable in Bennington County.
Vermont’s probate process often exceeds a year, particularly for estates involving intricate trusts, multiple beneficiaries, or legal disputes. The court system enforces strict estate oversight, leading to longer probate durations. (Vermont Judiciary)

✳️ Virginia (12-24 months)
❌ Inheritance funding is not available in VA
Virginia probate timelines frequently stretch up to two years, especially in cases with high-value assets or contested wills. Large estates with extensive financial holdings often require additional court review, delaying distribution. (Virginia Judicial System)

✳️ Washington (9-18 months)
Washington’s probate process typically falls within nine months to a year and a half, depending on estate complexity and court efficiency. The state allows non-intervention probate, a process that accelerates resolution for uncontested cases. (Washington Probate)

✳️ West Virginia (6-12 months)
❌ While probate advances are available in West Virginia, they are unavailable in Putnam County.
Probate in West Virginia generally takes between six months to a year, with contested estates requiring additional time. Smaller estates with clear asset distribution plans move more swiftly through the system. (Legal Aid of West Virginia)

✳️ Wisconsin (6-12 months)
Wisconsin probate proceedings usually resolve within a year, though large estates or those facing legal disputes may take longer. The state mandates creditor notification and estate inventory processes, which can add to the timeline. (Wisconsin Court System)

✳️ Wyoming (6-12 months)
Wyoming’s probate process typically ranges from six months to a year, with simple estates moving through the system more quickly. Complex cases involving contested inheritances or business assets often require extended legal proceedings. (Probate Law Center)