One of the most common questions families ask after a loved one passes away is how much an estate has to be worth to go through probate in Rhode Island. The answer depends on the type of assets the person owned and how those assets were titled at the time of their passing.
While every situation is unique, Rhode Island law provides clear guidelines on when a full probate administration is required and when a simplified or small estate process may be available instead.
When Full Probate Administration Is Required
A full probate administration is needed when the deceased person, also called the decedent, owned assets in their name alone, with no joint owner and no named beneficiary.
This process involves several legal steps, including filing petitions with the probate court, notifying creditors, holding hearings, submitting inventories, and officially closing the estate once all debts and distributions are completed.
In Rhode Island, a full probate administration is required when those probate assets total more than fifteen thousand dollars.
What Assets Go Through Probate?
Not all assets are subject to probate. Probate applies only to property and accounts that were owned solely by the decedent at the time of death without a co-owner or designated beneficiary.
Common probate assets include:
• Bank accounts in the deceased person’s name only
• Real estate titled solely in the deceased person’s name
• Vehicles owned individually
• Personal property of significant value
Assets that have a joint owner with rights of survivorship or a named beneficiary, such as life insurance policies, payable-on-death accounts, or retirement plans, typically pass directly to the survivor or beneficiary without going through probate.
Read: Will My Car Have to Go Through Probate?
When a Small Estate Process Can Be Used
If the total value of the assets that need to go through probate is fifteen thousand dollars or less, Rhode Island allows for a simplified procedure known as a Small Estate or a Voluntary Petition for Informal Executor or Administrator.
This process is designed to save time and expense for smaller estates. It typically involves fewer filings, no formal hearings, and a shorter timeline. However, it still requires accurate reporting and proper documentation to ensure compliance with state probate laws.
Why Proper Classification Matters
Before starting the probate process, it is important to review all assets carefully to determine which ones truly require probate and which transfer automatically. Misclassifying assets can lead to unnecessary court filings, delays, and added costs.
An experienced Rhode Island probate attorney can help identify which assets fall under probate, prepare the required filings, and ensure that the process, whether full administration or small estate, is handled efficiently and correctly.
Get Guidance from a Rhode Island Probate Lawyer
Understanding how much an estate has to be worth to go through probate in Rhode Island can be confusing, especially while managing the loss of a loved one. At McCarthy Law, our team helps families navigate every step of the probate process, from determining the value of the estate to filing the correct petitions and closing the estate with confidence.
If you are unsure whether your loved one’s estate qualifies for the small estate process or requires full probate administration, contact McCarthy Law today to schedule your free discovery call today.
About the Author
Attorney Daphne Hamilton is a compassionate Rhode Island estate planning and probate lawyer dedicated to helping families plan for the future and navigate the legal process after a loved one’s passing. At McCarthy Law, she works closely with clients to create thoughtful estate plans, guide them through probate administration, and ensure every transition is handled with care.
