What Are My Duties as Executor in Rhode Island?
Step-by-step guide for executors navigating probate, from filing the will to closing the estate.
Frequently Asked Questions
An executor (or personal representative) in Rhode Island is responsible for filing the will with the probate court, inventorying and appraising assets, notifying creditors, paying debts and taxes, and distributing remaining property to beneficiaries. The executor has a fiduciary duty to act in the best interest of the estate and its beneficiaries.
The probate petition filing fee in Rhode Island is approximately $1,500 for a $500,000 estate.R.I. Gen. Laws § 33-22-21, § 33-24-1 (small estate), § 33-9-1, § 33-17-1/§ 33-17-4 (bond), § 33-14-8, § 33-11-5 (creditor claims), § 33-22-11 (publication) — verified via webserver.rilegislature.gov 2026-05-27Verified May 27, 2026 Additional fees may apply for certified copies, recording fees, and publication of notice to creditors.
Rhode Island requires the executor to publish notice to creditors in a local newspaper. Known creditors should also receive direct written notice. Creditors have 6 months to file claims.R.I. Gen. Laws § 33-22-21, § 33-24-1 (small estate), § 33-9-1, § 33-17-1/§ 33-17-4 (bond), § 33-14-8, § 33-11-5 (creditor claims), § 33-22-11 (publication) — verified via webserver.rilegislature.gov 2026-05-27Verified May 27, 2026 The executor is personally liable for distributions made before the claim period expires if valid claims go unpaid.
Rhode Island allows estates valued at $15,000 or less to use a Voluntary Administration.R.I. Gen. Laws § 33-22-21, § 33-24-1 (small estate), § 33-9-1, § 33-17-1/§ 33-17-4 (bond), § 33-14-8, § 33-11-5 (creditor claims), § 33-22-11 (publication) — verified via webserver.rilegislature.gov 2026-05-27Verified May 27, 2026 The waiting period is 30 days after death. This avoids the need for formal probate and significantly reduces time and cost.
Rhode Island allows executors to receive reasonable compensation.R.I. Gen. Laws § 33-14-8 (reasonable compensation as court considers just)Verified May 27, 2026 Typical executor fees range from 2% to 4% of estate value. Executors can waive their fee entirely or accept a reduced amount. See a detailed breakdown with the Rhode Island executor fee calculator.
Probate costs in Rhode Island include court filing fees, attorney fees, executor compensation, publication costs, and potentially a surety bond. Total costs generally range from 3-8% of the estate value depending on complexity. The Rhode Island probate calculator provides a detailed cost estimate based on estate value.
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Rhode Island Estate Planning Resources
In-depth guides covering Rhode Island probate laws, trust requirements, and estate planning strategies.
