In general, New Jersey's probate process for most estates is relatively simple and affordable. The state only requires you to probate a will if there are probate assets included. A probate asset is one that does not already have a beneficiary designation through other means.
If the decedent has assets solely in his/her name at the time of death then the Will must be probated regardless of the value of the estate. You probate in order for the named executor in the Will to be given the authority to transfer the assets both real and personal to the estate.
Trusts are an excellent option for someone looking to avoid probate. However, you do not necessarily need a trust to avoid probate. Other options that may allow you to avoid probate proceedings include joint ownership of property, POD/TOD designations, and beneficiary deeds and designations.
New Jersey law also provides for simplified probate procedures for estates that fall below a certain monetary threshold: $50,000 if you are a surviving spouse or domestic partner, and $20,000 if you are the heir of an estate and there is no surviving spouse or domestic partner.
Understanding the Deceased Estate 3-Year Rule The core premise of the 3-year rule is that if the deceased's estate is not claimed or administered within three years of their death, the state or governing body may step in and take control of the distribution and management of the assets.
Typically, if an individual passes away leaving assets worth more than $20,000 with no named beneficiary or joint owner, their estate will need to go through probate. This includes bank accounts, real property, and other tangible assets.
If there are no claims against the estate within nine months of the death of the deceased, the executor can distribute the assets to beneficiaries and issue a declaration of discharge. So, nine months is essentially the minimum timeline for settling estates valued at over $20,000 in New Jersey.
Place a notice in The Gazette giving any creditors 2 months to claim anything they're owed. Do not distribute the estate's assets until the 2 months is up.
Letters of Authority: A document issued by the court evidencing the personal representative's authority to act. Nominee: The person seeking to be appointed personal representative. Personal representative: A person at least 18 years of age who has been appointed to administer the estate of the decedent.
Under Massachusetts law (MA Gen L ch 190B § 3-803), creditors have one year from the date of the decedent's death to assert their claims against the estate. This is a shorter time frame than in many other states, which often allow creditors two or more years to make their claims.