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Home→Tools→Estate Settlement→Massachusetts

What Should You Do When Someone Dies in Massachusetts?

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 Massachusetts, the estate inventory must be filed within 90 days of the executor's appointment.

Massachusetts allows a surviving spouse to elect against the will and receive 3300% of the estate. This election must be made within 180 days of receiving notice of probate.

Yes. Massachusetts provides a family allowance to spouse, minor children, dependent children during estate administration. The amount is at court discretion for up to 12 months.

How Do I Settle an Estate in Massachusetts?

When someone passes away in Massachusetts, 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.

Massachusetts offers simplified procedures for smaller estates. Estates with personal property under $25,000 may qualify for Voluntary Administration, which can significantly reduce time and costs. There is a 30-day waiting period after death.

For estates going through probate in Massachusetts, expect a timeline of 9-14 months for average estates. Creditors have 12 months to file claims, which is a key factor in the timeline.

Massachusetts 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 Massachusetts

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

Barnstable CountyBerkshire CountyBristol CountyDukes CountyEssex CountyFranklin CountyHampden CountyHampshire CountyMiddlesex CountyNantucket CountyNorfolk CountyPlymouth CountySuffolk CountyWorcester County

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.

AllFormsGetting PreparedSomeone Just Passed AwayI'm an ExecutorI'm a TrusteeTaxes & Inheritance

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 the Creditor Claim Deadlines?

See when creditors must file claims, what notice you must publish, whether direct notice is required, and the statutory priority for paying debts. Enter dates to calculate specific deadlines.

Check Deadlines

Massachusetts Estate Planning Resources

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