While the threshold for probate in NY is $50,000, in reality, the probate process is influenced by many things, and the estate's total value is just one of them. Whether or not your estate actually goes through probate will also depend on the type of assets held within the estate and how they were owned.
If you want to legally transfer ownership of property, one of the best ways to avoid probate is to transfer all of your assets into a living trust. In New York, living trusts can prevent probate on nearly any type of asset you own—from funds in bank accounts to vehicles and real estate.
It's also important to note that certain steps in the probate process have strict deadlines. For example, the executor or administrator must file the initial petition for probate within 30 days of the deceased's passing.
A probate attorney is not required under New York law, but legal assistance can save time and effort by ensuring that paperwork is completed properly and everyone with an interest in the estate receives the required notifications.
THE THRESHOLD FOR PROBATE IN NEW YORK In New York, if the estate has assets valued at $50,000 or more, probate may be required. This threshold is set by the Surrogate's Court in New York and applies to all assets held solely in the decedent's name.
Here's what you need to know about assets that are typically exempt from probate in New York: Jointly Owned Property. Payable-on-Death and Transfer-on-Death Accounts. Retirement Accounts. Life Insurance Policies. Trust Assets. Small Estates.
When a New York domiciliary dies (decedent) having a Last Will and Testament (testate), Probate is the process in which: (1) a Will is "proved " to the satisfaction of the Court to be the valid Last Will and Testament of the decedent, (2) the person named in the Will as Executor (fiduciary) is appointed to carry out ...
Common ways to hold or transfer property to avoid the New York probate process include: Living trusts. The State of New York allows residents to create a living trust for nearly any type of asset, including houses, properties, vehicles, and bank accounts. Co-ownership. Beneficiary designations.