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Home→Tools→Estate Settlement→California

What Should You Do When Someone Dies in California?

Get a personalized checklist of steps to settle an estate. Answer a few questions about your situation and we’ll guide you through the process.

Get Your Estate Settlement Checklist

Answer a few questions to get a personalized checklist for your situation.

West Dakota: $999,999 (99.9%)East Montana: $888,888 (88.8%)

This checklist provides general guidance for estate settlement. Requirements vary by state and circumstance. Consult a licensed attorney for legal advice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Immediate priorities include obtaining certified death certificates (10-15 copies are typically needed), locating estate planning documents, securing property and assets, notifying financial institutions, and determining whether probate is required.

In California, the estate inventory must be filed within 120 days of the executor's appointment. Professional appraisal is required for certain assets. A court-appointed appraiser may be required.

Yes. California provides a family allowance to spouse, minor children during estate administration. The amount is at court discretion.

Yes. California has adopted digital asset access legislation (2016). Access requires specific authorization from the decedent.

California is a community property state. The surviving spouse already owns half of community property and only the decedent's half is subject to probate. Both halves receive a stepped-up basis for tax purposes.

How Do I Settle an Estate in California?

When someone passes away in California, the process of settling their estate depends on how their assets were titled. Estates with a living trust typically settle within 6-12 months without court involvement, while estates requiring probate take longer.

California offers simplified procedures for smaller estates. Estates with personal property under $208,850 may qualify for Small Estate Affidavit, which can significantly reduce time and costs. There is a 40-day waiting period after death.

For estates going through probate in California, expect a timeline of 12-18 months for average estates. Creditors have 4 months to file claims, which is a key factor in the timeline.

California typically requires a probate bond, but it can be waived if specified in the will. Plan for this if the will doesn't include a bond waiver.

County-Specific Guides in California

Get a estate settlement customized for your county's probate court.

Alameda CountyAlpine CountyAmador CountyButte CountyCalaveras CountyColusa CountyContra Costa CountyDel Norte CountyEl Dorado CountyFresno CountyGlenn CountyHumboldt CountyImperial CountyInyo CountyKern CountyKings CountyLake CountyLassen CountyLos Angeles CountyMadera County

Showing 20 of 58 counties. View all California counties

Is this your situation?

Get a complete guide for your specific circumstances.

Death of a Parent

Death of a Parent

Losing a parent is overwhelming. What needs to happen next — settling the estate, navigating probate, and the steps to move forward.

Learn more
Loss of a Spouse

Loss of a Spouse

When you're ready, this won't take long. Settling the estate, claiming survivor benefits, retitling assets, and updating your own plan.

Learn more

More estate planning resources

Explore related tools and documents to complete your estate plan.

Free

Last Will and Testament

Create a free, state-specific will with witness and notarization requirements included.

Get Started
Free

Pour-Over Will

Transfer assets to your existing trust. State execution requirements included.

Get Started
$12/month

Revocable Living Trust

Find out if a revocable trust makes sense based on your state's laws.

Get Started

How Much Does Probate Cost?

Estimate attorney fees, executor fees, court costs, and timeline for probating an estate in your state. See if the estate qualifies for simplified probate procedures.

Use Calculator

Who Inherits Without a Will?

Find out who inherits your estate and how much they get if you die without a will. Based on your state's intestate succession laws.

Use Calculator

How Many Death Certificates Do I Need?

Calculate how many certified death certificates you need based on the assets and accounts you need to close. See state-specific ordering information.

Use Calculator

Do I Need Probate?

Answer a few questions to find out if an estate needs full probate, qualifies for simplified probate, or can avoid probate entirely with a small estate affidavit.

Check Now

I'm Inheriting - What Should I Expect?

Find out what to expect when inheriting money, property, or other assets. See timeline estimates, inheritance tax implications, and understand what the executor or trustee is handling behind the scenes.

Learn More

What Are My Duties as Executor?

Complete guide for executors and personal representatives navigating probate. Court filings, creditor claims, and distribution timelines.

Get Checklist

What Are My Duties as Trustee?

Step-by-step guide for successor trustees administering a trust. Understand your duties, notification deadlines, and asset management responsibilities.

Get Checklist

California Estate Administration Attorneys

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California Estate Planning Resources

In-depth guides covering California probate laws, trust requirements, and estate planning strategies.