Settling an estate in Arizona
In Arizona, probate typically takes 4-9 months. Estates under $75,000 personal / $100,000 real property can usually use a simpler small-estate process. Arizona has no state estate tax and no inheritance tax.
The key numbers
Reviewed January 2026- Typical probate timeline
- 4-9 months
- Small estate limit
- $75,000 personal / $100,000 real property
- Small estate process
- Small estate affidavit. Personal property ≤$75K; real property ≤$100K. Wait 30 days after death.
- Deadline to file the will / open probate
- No strict deadline
- State estate tax
- No
- Inheritance tax
- No
- Executor pay
- Reasonable compensation, typically 2-4% of estate value.
- Community property state
- Yes
- Homestead protection
- $250,000 homestead exemption
Deadlines to know
- Small estate affidavit
- 30 days after death
- Creditor claims period
- 4 months from first publication
- Inventory filing
- 90 days after appointment
Common questions
How long does probate take in Arizona?
Probate in Arizona typically takes 4-9 months. Simple estates move faster; disputes, real estate in other states, or a business can stretch it.
What is the small estate limit in Arizona?
$75,000 personal / $100,000 real property. Small estate affidavit. Personal property ≤$75K; real property ≤$100K. Wait 30 days after death.
Does Arizona have an estate or inheritance tax?
No. Arizona has no state estate tax. It has no inheritance tax.
How much does an executor get paid in Arizona?
Reasonable compensation, typically 2-4% of estate value.
Next steps
Read the full Arizona estate settlement guide, or start with Executor 101.
Get a Arizona checklist with Afterward →Figures last reviewed January 2026. Laws change, and this is general information, not legal advice. Confirm with the Arizona probate court in the county where your loved one lived, or a local estate attorney.