Tennessee probate guide

Probate process in Tennessee

Tennessee probate is handled by the Chancery Court in most counties, with dedicated Probate Courts in Davidson (Nashville) and Shelby (Memphis). The small-estate affidavit is available for estates of $50,000 or less (excluding real estate) after a 45-day wait. Muniment of title can transfer real property when there is a will and no other administration is needed. New statewide fee schedules took effect January 1, 2026 under T.C.A. § 8-21-401. Tennessee does NOT have a real-property TOD deed statute.

Tennessee probate at a glance

Court
Chancery Court (most counties) or Probate Court (e.g. Davidson, Shelby)
Typical timeline
26–52 weeks
Filing fee
$100–$400
Small-estate threshold
$50,000
TOD deed allowed?
No
Bond required by default?
Yes (unless waived)
Statute
Tenn. Code Ann. §§ 30-1-101 et seq.; § 30-4-101 (small estates)

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

How Tennessee probate works, step by step

  1. 1File petition for letters in Chancery or Probate Court
  2. 2Court appoints personal representative and issues letters
  3. 3Publish notice to creditors; four-month claim period runs
  4. 4File inventory and pay debts, Tennessee taxes, and allowances
  5. 5File final accounting and order of distribution

Probate by county in Tennessee

Filing fees, court contacts, and process detail for 4 Tennessee 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 Tennessee probate attorney for advice specific to your situation.