Probate Timeline

Step Duration
Prepare and File Petition Probate 1-2 months
Court hearing on the petition for probate 1 week OR 1-2 months
The following are issued. letter of administration ,order for probate, duties and liabilities, issue bond (if ordered) & Domiciliary Letters 1 week OR 1-2 months (if not contested)
Notice to Creditors DEADLINE 100 days
Allow or Reject Creditor Claims DEADLINE 100 days
Pay state and Federal Taxes (if necessary) 6-12 months
Notice to Department of Health Services (Estate Recovery Program for Nursing Home care) NH normally notifies within 60 days
Receive Final Tax Letter from state and Federal (if appropriate) 6-12 months
INFORMAL: Final Judgment on Claims
Final Distribution and Accounting 8-12 months
Distribution of Assets to Heirs 8-12 months
Receipts filed DEADLINE 120 days
FORMAL: Final Judgment on Claims
Petition for Final Distribution and Accounting (depends on waivers/consents) 8-12 months
Hearing on Petition for Final Distribution and Accounting 8-12 months
Order Approving Final Distribution and Accounting 8-12 months
Distribution of Assets to Heirs 8-12 months
Receipts filed DEADLINE 120 days
Final Discharge Order (indicates close of probate case) 8-12 months
Final Distribution of Funds 8-12 months