What to Do When Someone Dies in Alabama
A complete guide to death certificates, probate, estate taxes, and funeral costs in Alabama. Everything you need to know about handling a death in the state of Alabama.
Quick Facts: Alabama
Death Certificates in Alabama
Cost Per Certified Copy
The first certified copy costs $15. Additional copies cost $15 each.
How Many to Order
We recommend ordering 10 to 15 copies. Banks, insurance companies, the Social Security Administration, the DMV, employers, and other institutions typically require original certified copies. Ordering extras upfront saves time and money compared to requesting more later. Ten copies in Alabama would cost approximately $150.
Where to Order
Death certificates in Alabama are issued by the Alabama Center for Health Statistics. Your funeral home will typically order the initial copies for you as part of their services.
Visit Alabama Center for Health StatisticsFiling Deadline
In Alabama, a death must be registered within 5 days. The funeral home or attending physician typically handles the filing.
Probate in Alabama
Small Estate Threshold
Estates valued under $25,000 may qualify for simplified probate or a small estate affidavit. Small estates under $25,000 may use summary distribution.
Typical Timeline
Probate in Alabama typically takes 6-12 months. The timeline depends on the size and complexity of the estate, whether anyone contests the will, and the court's caseload.
Small Estate Affidavit
If the estate is valued below the small estate threshold of $25,000, you may be able to use a small estate affidavit instead of going through formal probate. This is a simplified process that allows heirs to collect assets by presenting a sworn statement to banks and other institutions. Waiting periods and specific requirements vary, so check with the Probate Court in your county for exact procedures.
Key Things to Know in Alabama
State-Specific Notes
Alabama allows independent administration if the will authorizes it. The state has no separate family court; probate judges also handle some guardianship matters.
No State Death Taxes
Alabama does not have a state estate tax or inheritance tax. Only the federal estate tax applies, and it only affects estates exceeding $13.61 million.
Funeral Costs in Alabama
These are median costs in Alabama. Actual costs vary significantly based on the funeral home, location within the state, and services selected. Under the FTC Funeral Rule, funeral homes must provide itemized pricing when you ask. You are not required to purchase a package and can choose individual services.
Major Cities in Alabama
Get a Personalized Checklist for Alabama
Answer a few questions about your situation and get a step-by-step guide customized for Alabama, with only the tasks that apply to you.
Get Your Free Personalized GuideRelated Guides
Probate Guide
How probate works, when you can skip it, and what it costs in your state.
Estate Tax
Federal and state estate tax thresholds, exemptions, and filing deadlines.
Funeral Costs
Average funeral costs by type and practical ways to reduce expenses.
Master Checklist
Track every task from day one through closing the estate.