Georgia probate guide

Probate process in Georgia

Georgia probate runs through the county Probate Court. Georgia is unusual in having no statutory small-estate dollar threshold; instead, heirs can file a Petition for Order Declaring No Administration Necessary (Form GPCSF 9) for an estate of any size if all debts are paid and heirs agree. Filing fees vary by county. Georgia enacted a transfer-on-death deed statute effective July 1, 2024 (O.C.G.A. § 44-17-1 et seq.).

Georgia probate at a glance

Court
Probate Court (county)
Typical timeline
26–52 weeks
Filing fee
$100–$300
Small-estate threshold
No small-estate shortcut
TOD deed allowed?
Yes
Bond required by default?
Yes (unless waived)
Statute
O.C.G.A. §§ 53-1-1 et seq. (Georgia Probate Code)

Source: gaprobate.gov. Fees and thresholds change — verify with your county court before filing.

How Georgia probate works, step by step

  1. 1File petition to probate will (solemn form) or for letters of administration
  2. 2Court issues letters; heirs are served and may file objections
  3. 3Publish notice to creditors; three-month claim period runs
  4. 4Inventory and appraise assets and pay debts and taxes (waivable)
  5. 5File final return and petition for discharge as personal representative

Probate by county in Georgia

Filing fees, court contacts, and process detail for 4 Georgia counties:

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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 Georgia probate attorney for advice specific to your situation.