How long does probate usually take to complete?

As a general rule, the probate process takes 9 to 18 months. Some states like Texas and California have a simplified probate process for simple or small estates that don’t require much court oversight. With simplified probate, the process can be completed in weeks.

However, probate can, on occasion, take 1-3 years or even longer. Many factors can affect the probate process. Probate may up to several years if any of these issues complicate probate:

• The state’s probate court process.
• Difficulty locating beneficiaries or heirs.
• The number of beneficiaries and where they live.
• A contest of the will by beneficiaries or heirs.
• Real estate and property that can’t be sold easily.
• Unsettled liens and claims against the estate.
• Failing to notify creditors during the claim period.
• A personal representative that fails to meet their legal obligations.
• The estate is large enough to owe estate taxes.