PROBATE TYPE IDENTIFICATION

Which Type of Probate Do You Need?
The Answer Changes Everything

There are multiple types of probate — full, simplified, summary, and small estate affidavit — and the type that applies to your estate changes everything: cost, timeline, and whether you need a lawyer. Our assessment identifies your exact probate type based on your state's thresholds and your estate's details.

Get Your Free Preliminary Assessment

The Wrong Probate Type Costs Time and Money

⚠ There are multiple probate types in every state — and the wrong one wastes time and money
⚠ State-specific thresholds determine eligibility and they change regularly
⚠ You may qualify for simplified probate but not know it exists
⚠ Asset types (real property vs. personal property) affect which procedures are available
⚠ The probate type determines everything else: cost, timeline, documents, and whether you need a lawyer

Your Exact Probate Type, Identified

Our assessment analyzes your estate against your state's rules and identifies the correct probate type. This determines everything: cost, timeline, documents, and whether you can skip full probate entirely.

What You'll Get

Probate Type Determination

Know whether your estate requires full probate, qualifies for simplified procedures, or can use small estate affidavits.

Threshold Analysis

We check your estate value against your state's current thresholds — which change regularly and vary by asset type.

Downstream Impact

Your probate type determines cost, timeline, documents, and attorney needs. Get all of these answers in one report.

Alternative Paths

Discover transfer methods and procedures you may not know exist — like spousal petitions, trust-based transfers, or simplified affidavits.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main types of probate?

Most states offer some combination of: full/formal probate, simplified/summary probate, small estate affidavits, and transfer-on-death procedures. Which ones are available depends on your state, estate value, asset types, and other factors specific to your situation.

How do I know which type applies to me?

That's exactly what our assessment determines. We analyze your estate's value, asset types, and circumstances against your state's specific thresholds and rules to identify which probate path applies.

Can I skip probate entirely?

In some cases, yes. Certain assets (joint tenancy, beneficiary designations, trusts) bypass probate. And if the remaining probate assets fall below your state's small estate threshold, simplified procedures may eliminate the need for formal probate.

Do different probate types have different costs?

Yes, dramatically. Full probate can cost thousands in attorney fees and take 6-12+ months. Simplified procedures or small estate affidavits may cost under $500 and take weeks. Knowing your type is the foundation for understanding costs.

Know Your Probate Type. Know Your Path.

Find out which probate type applies to your estate — and what that means for cost, timeline, and next steps.