In California, smaller estates can avoid going through probate. Currently, a deceased person's estate is only required to go through probate if the estate property is worth over $166,250. If the total value of estate assets is $166,250 or less, the estate may qualify for a non-formal probate case.
Generally, in California creditors of a decedent's estate have up to one year (365 days) from the decedent's death to file a timely creditor claim. The claim must be filed inside an open probate court proceeding.
California is one of the 38 states that does not have an estate tax. However there are other taxes that may apply to your wealth and property after you die.
It is here that it is determined if probate is required. If the total of all assets of the estate is below $166,250 or if there aren't any assets that require a complex transfer, the estate may not require a probate in California.
Can I Do Probate on My Own, Without an Attorney? It's entirely possible to complete all the steps of probate on your own, without an attorney representing you.
Overview of a probate case Open a case. You (the person who starts the case) are called the “petitioner." You must file forms with the court to “open probate.” You file a Petition for Probate (form DE-111) along with other court forms. Administer the estate. Close the estate.
In general, you have to sue someone (file the papers in court) within 2 years from the date of the injury. There are different rules for suing the government with shorter time limits. If you're suing, make sure you're well within the correct time period.
You must file a claim with the State Controller's Office. If your claim is eligible, you will be given the option to file electronically after you have entered the requested information for your claim. If a paper claim is required, the site will provide instructions on how to complete that process.
Under the California Tort Claims Act, any person seeking to recover monetary damages for personal injuries, wrongful death and/or personal property, must file a government claim with each public entity defendant within six months of the accrual of the cause of action. (Gov. Code, § 911.2.)
Form 13101 is the specific Small Estate Affidavit used in California. Heirs fill it out to claim the deceased's assets, such as bank accounts and personal property. The affiant must provide accurate information about the deceased and sign under penalty of perjury.