How to Probate an Estate in Florida
A complete guide to the probate process in Florida, covering small estate thresholds, court procedures, timelines, and strategies to simplify or avoid probate. Whether you are an executor named in a will or an heir handling an intestate estate, this page walks you through every step.
Quick Facts: Probate in Florida
Do You Need Probate in Florida?
Not every estate in Florida needs to go through formal probate. The key factor is the value of the estate. Florida sets its small estate threshold at $75,000. Estates below this amount can typically use a simplified procedure instead of full probate.
For context, the national median small estate threshold is $75,000. Florida's threshold is right at the national average.
Estates under $75,000 may use summary administration; also available if decedent died more than 2 years ago. If the estate exceeds this amount, you will need to file for probate through the Circuit Court (Probate Division) in the county where the deceased lived.
Certain assets bypass probate regardless of value. These include life insurance payable to a named beneficiary, retirement accounts with designated beneficiaries, jointly held property with right of survivorship, and assets held in a revocable living trust.
Step-by-Step: Filing for Probate in Florida
Locate the Will and Key Documents
Find the original will, if one exists. In Florida, the will must be filed with the Circuit Court (Probate Division) in the county where the deceased lived. Also gather death certificates ($9 for the first copy in Florida), financial account statements, property deeds, and insurance policies.
File the Petition with the Circuit Court (Probate Division)
Submit the will and a petition to open probate at the Circuit Court (Probate Division). If there is no will (intestate), you will file a petition for administration instead. The court will schedule a hearing, typically within a few weeks of filing.
Receive Letters of Administration
After the court approves your petition, you will receive Letters Testamentary (if there is a will) or Letters of Administration (if there is no will). These letters give you legal authority to act on behalf of the estate, including accessing bank accounts, selling property, and paying debts.
Notify Creditors and Beneficiaries
Florida law requires you to notify known creditors of the death and the probate proceeding. You must also publish a notice in a local newspaper to alert any unknown creditors. Creditors then have a set period to file claims against the estate.
Inventory and Appraise Estate Assets
Create a detailed inventory of all estate assets and their fair market value. This includes real estate, vehicles, bank accounts, investments, personal property, and business interests. Some assets may require a professional appraisal. File the inventory with the Circuit Court (Probate Division).
Pay Debts, Taxes, and Expenses
Use estate funds to pay valid creditor claims, outstanding debts, final income taxes, and estate administration expenses. Federal estate tax applies to estates over $13.61 million.
Distribute Remaining Assets to Beneficiaries
Once debts, taxes, and expenses are settled, distribute the remaining assets according to the will. If there is no will, Florida's intestacy laws determine who inherits. Spouses, children, and other close relatives are prioritized under intestate succession.
Close the Estate
File a final accounting with the Circuit Court (Probate Division) showing all assets received, debts paid, and distributions made. Once the court approves, the estate is officially closed and you are released from your duties as executor or administrator. This entire process in Florida typically takes 6-12 months.
Small Estate Procedures in Florida
If the estate is valued at $75,000 or less, Florida offers simplified procedures that can save significant time and money compared to formal probate.
Florida Small Estate Rules
Estates under $75,000 may use summary administration; also available if decedent died more than 2 years ago. This is in line with the national median threshold of $75,000.
Small Estate Affidavit
For qualifying estates, an heir or beneficiary can file a small estate affidavit to collect assets without going through formal probate. This is a sworn statement declaring the estate value, listing the assets, and identifying the rightful heirs. Banks, employers, and other institutions will typically release funds upon receiving a notarized affidavit along with a certified death certificate.
Summary Administration
Some estates that exceed the affidavit threshold but are still relatively small may qualify for summary administration in Florida. This is a shortened version of full probate with fewer requirements and a faster timeline. The Circuit Court (Probate Division) handles these cases with simplified paperwork and fewer hearings.
How Long Does Probate Take in Florida?
Probate in Florida typically takes 6-12 months. The actual duration depends on several factors, including the size and complexity of the estate, whether anyone contests the will, and the current caseload of the Circuit Court (Probate Division).
Local Context
Florida offers a strong homestead exemption that protects the family home from most creditors during probate. The homestead passes outside of probate to a surviving spouse or minor children. Florida has no state income tax or estate tax.
Factors That Affect Timeline
- Estate size: Small estates under $75,000 can use simplified procedures and may be resolved in weeks rather than months.
- Will contests: If anyone challenges the validity of the will, probate can be delayed by months or even years while the dispute is resolved.
- Creditor claims: Creditors must be given time to file claims against the estate. This waiting period is set by Florida law and cannot be shortened.
- Tax filings: While Florida does not have a state estate tax, federal income tax and possibly federal estate tax returns still need to be filed.
How to Avoid Probate in Florida
Many families in Florida can reduce or eliminate the need for probate through advance planning. Here are the most common strategies, some of which are particularly effective in Florida.
Revocable Living Trust
Assets held in a revocable living trust pass directly to beneficiaries without probate. This is the most comprehensive strategy and works well for estates of any size in Florida.
Transfer-on-Death Designations
Bank accounts (POD), investment accounts (TOD), and in some cases real estate (TOD deeds) can be set up to transfer automatically upon death without going through probate.
Joint Ownership
Property held in joint tenancy with right of survivorship passes automatically to the surviving owner. Tenancy by the entirety (for married couples) offers similar protection in states that recognize it.
Beneficiary Designations
Life insurance, retirement accounts (401(k), IRA), and annuities all pass directly to named beneficiaries. Keeping these designations up to date is one of the simplest ways to reduce the size of the probate estate.
Small Estate Shortcut
If the estate is worth less than $75,000, you may qualify for Florida's small estate procedures. This is a faster and cheaper alternative to formal probate, often requiring only a simple affidavit rather than a full court proceeding.
Death Certificates in Florida
You will need certified copies of the death certificate to begin the probate process in Florida. The Circuit Court (Probate Division) requires at least one certified copy when you file the petition, and banks, insurance companies, and government agencies will each require their own copies.
We recommend ordering 10 to 15 certified copies. For full ordering instructions and county-level offices, see our death certificates guide.
County Probate and Vital Records Offices in Florida
Probate is filed in the county where the deceased lived. Below are the major county offices in Florida where you can file probate petitions and obtain death certificates.
| County | Office | Phone | Website |
|---|---|---|---|
| Miami-Dade County | Florida Department of Health in Miami-Dade County | (786) 336-1499 | Visit |
| Broward County | Florida Department of Health in Broward County | (954) 467-4700 | Visit |
| Palm Beach County | Florida Department of Health in Palm Beach County | (561) 840-4568 | Visit |
| Hillsborough County | Florida Department of Health in Hillsborough County | (813) 307-8010 | Visit |
| Orange County | Florida Department of Health in Orange County | (407) 858-1400 | Visit |
| Duval County | Florida Department of Health in Duval County | (904) 253-1030 | Visit |
| Pinellas County | Florida Department of Health in Pinellas County | (727) 824-6900 | Visit |
| Lee County | Florida Department of Health in Lee County | (239) 690-2100 | Visit |
| Polk County | Florida Department of Health in Polk County | (863) 519-7900 | Visit |
| Brevard County | Florida Department of Health in Brevard County | (321) 454-7111 | Visit |
Frequently Asked Questions: Probate in Florida
What is the probate threshold in Florida?
The small estate threshold in Florida is $75,000. Estates under $75,000 may use summary administration; also available if decedent died more than 2 years ago. This matches the national median of $75,000.
How long does probate take in Florida?
Probate in Florida typically takes 6-12 months. The exact duration depends on the size and complexity of the estate, whether anyone contests the will, and how quickly the Circuit Court (Probate Division) processes filings. Florida offers a strong homestead exemption that protects the family home from most creditors during probate. The homestead passes outside of probate to a surviving spouse or minor children. Florida has no state income tax or estate tax.
Which court handles probate in Florida?
Probate in Florida is handled by the Circuit Court (Probate Division). You file the will and petition for probate in the county where the deceased lived.
How can I avoid probate in Florida?
Common strategies to avoid probate in Florida include creating a revocable living trust, holding property in joint tenancy with right of survivorship, using transfer-on-death (TOD) designations on financial accounts, and naming beneficiaries on life insurance and retirement accounts.
Does Florida have an estate or inheritance tax that affects probate?
No, Florida does not have a state estate tax or inheritance tax. Only the federal estate tax applies, and that only affects estates exceeding $13.61 million. This simplifies the probate process for most families.
Important
This information is for general guidance only. It is not legal, financial, or tax advice. Laws vary by state and change regularly. Always verify current details with the relevant authority. This guide covers Florida. Other states may have different rules. Last reviewed: March 2026. If you spot an error, please contact us. See our editorial policy.