Pennsylvania Probate Guide
Everything you need to know about the probate process in Pennsylvania, including costs, timelines, and requirements.
Step 1: Enter What You Know
Real estate, bank accounts, investments, personal property
Enter the address of the property in the estate
Select the state where the property is located
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How Probate Works in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania probate is handled by the Register of Wills in each county. The Orphan's Court oversees contested matters and fee disputes. Pennsylvania has a relatively straightforward probate process with good small estate procedures.
Important Note for Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania fees are reviewed by Orphan's Court. The Johnson Estate schedule is often used as a benchmark for reasonable fees.
Pennsylvania Probate Timeline
Pennsylvania probate typically takes 6-12 months for simple estates. Complex estates or those with disputes may take 1-2 years. The creditor claim period is 1 year from death.
Typical Probate Process
Small Estate Threshold
Estates with total assets under $50,000 (or $100,000 if the surviving spouse is the sole heir) may qualify for simplified small estate procedures.
Uniform Probate Code
Not Adopted
Traditional probate rules apply
Free Probate Tools
Use these tools to help navigate the Pennsylvania probate process
Probate Cost Calculator
Estimate likely probate expenses for Pennsylvania including court fees, attorney fees, and more.
Timeline Estimator
See how long probate may take in Pennsylvania based on your situation.
Do I Need Probate?
A simple questionnaire to help determine if probate is required.
Probate Checklist
Step-by-step guide to what needs to be done during probate.
Selling a House in Pennsylvania Probate?
In most cases the estate doesn't have to wait for probate to finish before selling real estate — but the rules on executor authority, notices, and court confirmation are state-specific. Learn how probate sales work, what the house costs the estate every month it sits, and whether listing it or selling as-is for cash fits your situation. If you'd like, our team can walk you through it for free.
Looking for Another State?
We have comprehensive probate guides and fee calculators for all 50 states and D.C.
View All State GuidesThe information on this page is provided for general educational purposes only and is not legal, tax, or financial advice. Probate laws change and vary by state and by individual circumstances, and we cannot guarantee the completeness or accuracy of the information provided. For advice about your specific situation, consult a licensed attorney in your state.