Inheriting in Florida: What to Expect
Understand the timeline, taxes, and process for receiving your inheritance. See what the executor or trustee is handling behind the scenes.
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Understand your inheritance
Select the state, estate plan type, and what you're inheriting to see timeline estimates, tax implications, and what to expect.
This tool will show you:
- How long the process typically takes
- Whether you'll owe inheritance tax
- What the executor/trustee is handling
- Tips for receiving your inheritance
This tool provides general information for educational purposes only. Every estate is different. Consult with the estate executor, trustee, or an attorney for information specific to your situation. Timeline estimates are based on typical cases and may vary.
Frequently Asked Questions
The timeline varies by estate type. Assets that bypass probate (life insurance, retirement accounts) typically arrive in 2-8 weeks. Trust distributions take 1-6 months. Probate estates in Florida usually take 9-12 months, sometimes longer for complex estates.
No, Florida does not have a state inheritance tax. You generally will not owe state taxes on your inheritance. However, inherited retirement accounts (401k, IRA) are subject to income tax when you take distributions.
Florida gives creditors 3 months to file claims against the estate. The executor cannot make final distributions to beneficiaries until this period expires. This protects you from inheriting the deceased's unpaid debts.
Potentially. Once the executor or trustee is confident there are sufficient assets to cover all debts, taxes, and expenses, they may make partial distributions. However, they must be cautious - if they distribute too much too early, they could be personally liable for unpaid claims.
More Estate Planning Resources
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