Ohio probate guide

Probate process in Ohio

Ohio probate runs in the Probate Court of each county Court of Common Pleas. Release from Administration is available when the gross probate estate is $35,000 or less (or $100,000 if the surviving spouse is sole heir). Filing fees vary by county, typically $100-$250 for release from administration. Ohio recognizes a transfer-on-death affidavit/designation for real property under Ohio Rev. Code § 5302.22-.23.

Ohio probate at a glance

Court
Probate Court (county Court of Common Pleas)
Typical timeline
26–52 weeks
Filing fee
$100–$250
Small-estate threshold
$35,000
TOD deed allowed?
Yes
Bond required by default?
Yes (unless waived)
Statute
Ohio Rev. Code Ch. 2101-2131

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

How Ohio probate works, step by step

  1. 1File application for release from administration or full probate
  2. 2Court appoints fiduciary and issues letters
  3. 3Publish notice to creditors; six-month claim period runs
  4. 4File inventory and pay debts, Ohio estate-related items, and allowances
  5. 5File final account and certificate of termination

Probate by county in Ohio

Filing fees, court contacts, and process detail for 6 Ohio counties:

Protect your family from another probate — get a free life insurance quote

Most Ohio families never plan ahead. A 30-second quote from a licensed agent costs nothing and could save your heirs months of probate court.

This page is informational and is not legal advice. Probate procedure varies by county and changes over time. Consult a licensed Ohio probate attorney for advice specific to your situation.