What to Do When Someone Dies in Massachusetts
A complete guide to death certificates, probate, estate taxes, and funeral costs in Massachusetts. Everything you need to know about handling a death in the state of Massachusetts.
Quick Facts: Massachusetts
Death Certificates in Massachusetts
Cost Per Certified Copy
The first certified copy costs $20. Additional copies cost $20 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 Massachusetts would cost approximately $200.
Where to Order
Death certificates in Massachusetts are issued by the Massachusetts Registry of Vital Records and Statistics. Your funeral home will typically order the initial copies for you as part of their services.
Visit Massachusetts Registry of Vital Records and StatisticsFiling Deadline
In Massachusetts, a death must be registered within 5 days. The funeral home or attending physician typically handles the filing.
Probate in Massachusetts
Small Estate Threshold
Estates valued under $25,000 may qualify for simplified probate or a small estate affidavit. Estates under $25,000 in personal property with no real estate may use voluntary administration.
Probate Court
Probate in Massachusetts is handled by the Probate and Family Court.
Visit Probate and Family Court websiteTypical Timeline
Probate in Massachusetts typically takes 12-18 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 and Family Court in your county for exact procedures.
Uniform Probate Code State
Massachusetts has adopted the Uniform Probate Code (UPC), which standardizes and simplifies probate procedures. UPC states generally offer more streamlined processes, including simplified procedures for small estates and informal probate options.
Estate and Inheritance Tax in Massachusetts
State Estate Tax
Massachusetts imposes a state estate tax. The state exemption is $2,000,000, which is significantly lower than the federal estate tax exemption of $13.61 million. The tax rate is 0.8-16%.
The estate tax return is typically due 9 months after the date of death. An extension may be available, but any tax owed still accrues interest.
Federal Estate Tax
Regardless of state taxes, the federal estate tax applies to estates exceeding $13.61 million (2024 threshold). The federal estate tax return (Form 706) is due 9 months after the date of death. Most estates fall well below this threshold and owe no federal estate tax.
Key Things to Know in Massachusetts
Uniform Probate Code
Massachusetts follows the Uniform Probate Code, which provides a standardized and generally more efficient probate process. Benefits include informal probate options, simplified small estate procedures, and consistent rules for intestate succession (when someone dies without a will).
State-Specific Notes
Massachusetts has one of the lowest estate tax exemptions at $2 million, and the tax applies to the entire estate once the threshold is exceeded (not just the amount over $2 million). This "cliff" effect can result in a significant tax bill for estates just over the threshold.
Funeral Costs in Massachusetts
These are median costs in Massachusetts. 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 Massachusetts
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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.