The Probate Timeline

Activity Step Duration

• Prepare and File Petition for Probate 1-2 months
• Court hearing on the Petition for Probate 2-3 months
• The following are issued: Letters of Administration, Orders for 2-4 months Probate, Duties and Liabilities, Issue Bond (if ordered), & **Letters (if not contested) of Testamentary **
• Notice to Creditors 2-4 months
• Notice to Department of Health Services Inventory & Appraisement 4-8 months
• Pay State and Federal Taxes (if necessary) 6-12 months
• Allow or Reject Creditor Claims
• Possible Preliminary Distributions
• Notice to Department of Health Services (if deceased received medical)
• Notice to Franchise Tax Board (if heir is out of state)
• Claim of Exemption (if assets transfer to a minor) 6-15 months
• Receive Final Tax Letter from State and Federal (if appropriate) 6-18 months
• File Petition for Final Distribution and Accounting 8-16 months
• Hearing on Petition for final Distribution and Accounting
• Order Approving Final Distribution and Accounting
• Distribution of Assets to Heirs 9-17 months
• Final Discharge Order (indicates close of probate case) 9-18 months
• Final Distribution of Funds 9-18 months