Does the size of an intestate estate matter?

In general, the size of an intestate estate does matter when it comes to intestate succession law in Washington. Intestate succession law in Washington dictates how a deceased person’s property will be distributed if they don’t have a valid will. This process can be complicated and is often different depending on the size of the estate. A small estate, which generally consists of a total value of less than $100,000, can usually be handled outside of the court with minimal paperwork. The beneficiaries may be allowed to fill out an affidavit form which provides proof to financial institutions that they are the rightful heirs. For larger estates, however, the intestate succession process is more complicated. The probate court must get involved in order to determine who the rightful heirs are, and the process can be lengthy and complicated. There are timelines to consider, as well as the payment of any outstanding debts and taxes before the inheritance can be distributed to the heirs. Ultimately, the size of an intestate estate does matter. Small estates may be able to be handled outside of the court, while larger estates may require the assistance of the court in order to determine how the estate should be divided among the heirs. Knowing this can help potential heirs understand what to expect when an intestate is involved.

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Does the size of an intestate estate matter?

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