Arkansas probate guide
Probate process in Arkansas
Arkansas probate runs in the Circuit Court's probate division. The small-estate affidavit (filing fee about $25) is available 45 days after death for estates of $100,000 or less, excluding homestead and statutory allowances. Arkansas recognizes transfer-on-death (beneficiary) deeds under A.C.A. § 18-12-608.
Arkansas probate at a glance
- Court
- Circuit Court (Probate Division)
- Typical timeline
- 26–52 weeks
- Filing fee
- $25–$200
- Small-estate threshold
- $100,000
- TOD deed allowed?
- Yes
- Bond required by default?
- Yes (unless waived)
- Statute
- Ark. Code Ann. §§ 28-1-101 et seq.
Source: arkansaslegalnow.com. Fees and thresholds change — verify with your county court before filing.
How Arkansas probate works, step by step
- 1File petition for probate and appointment of personal representative
- 2Court issues letters testamentary or of administration
- 3Publish notice to creditors; six-month claim period runs
- 4Inventory assets, pay debts and taxes
- 5File final accounting and order of distribution
Probate by county in Arkansas
Filing fees, court contacts, and process detail for 1 Arkansas county:
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This page is informational and is not legal advice. Probate procedure varies by county and changes over time. Consult a licensed Arkansas probate attorney for advice specific to your situation.