About EstateCheck

EstateCheck is a free, browser-based small estate affidavit eligibility checker. You enter the state where the decedent lived, the estate value, and a few details about assets and heirs, and the tool reports whether the estate appears to qualify for the small estate affidavit shortcut — along with that state's threshold, waiting period, filing fee, and a step-by-step checklist.

Why we built it

When a loved one dies, the people left behind are often handed a confusing tangle of bank accounts, vehicles, and paperwork — and a pile of conflicting advice about whether probate is required. The reality is that most U.S. states offer a small-estate shortcut, but the rules differ dramatically from state to state, and the thresholds change frequently. We wanted a single, fast, free tool that answers the most important first question — does this estate even qualify for the shortcut? — without requiring a paid consultation just to learn the threshold.

How it works

The checker loads a static dataset of all 50 states plus the District of Columbia, each with its current small estate affidavit threshold, waiting period, filing fee, statutory citation, and filing notes. Everything runs in your browser: the value you enter is compared against the applicable threshold (including a higher spouse threshold where relevant), and the rule engine reports an eligible / borderline / not-eligible verdict with the math shown. Nothing you type is sent to a server — there is no server.

What this tool is not

EstateCheck is not legal advice and is not a substitute for a licensed probate attorney. It does not account for every nuance — homestead allowances, family exemptions, creditor claims, out-of-state property, non-probate assets, contested wills, or the most recent legislative changes. Statutory thresholds change frequently; some figures in the dataset are marked approximate and should be confirmed with the local probate court. For your specific situation, consult a probate attorney in the state where the decedent lived.

Privacy

No upload. No server. No account. The values you enter stay in your browser and are discarded when you close the tab. See our privacy policy.

Contact

Questions, corrections to a state's threshold, or feedback: [email protected]