Settling an estate in Iowa
In Iowa, probate typically takes 6-18 months. Estates under $50,000 can usually use a simpler small-estate process. Iowa has no state estate tax and no inheritance tax.
The key numbers
Reviewed January 2026- Typical probate timeline
- 6-18 months
- Small estate limit
- $50,000
- Small estate process
- Small estate procedures for estates under $50K.
- Deadline to file the will / open probate
- No strict deadline
- State estate tax
- No
- Inheritance tax
- No
- Executor pay
- Statutory: 6% of first $1K, 4% of next $4K, 2% over $5K.
- Community property state
- No
- Homestead protection
- $500 or 40 acres rural / 1/2 acre urban homestead exemption
Deadlines to know
- Creditor claims period
- 4 months from second publication
- Final income tax
- April 15 of following year
Common questions
How long does probate take in Iowa?
Probate in Iowa typically takes 6-18 months. Simple estates move faster; disputes, real estate in other states, or a business can stretch it.
What is the small estate limit in Iowa?
$50,000. Small estate procedures for estates under $50K.
Does Iowa have an estate or inheritance tax?
No. Iowa has no state estate tax. It has no inheritance tax.
How much does an executor get paid in Iowa?
Statutory: 6% of first $1K, 4% of next $4K, 2% over $5K.
Next steps
Read the full Iowa estate settlement guide, or start with Executor 101.
Get a Iowa checklist with Afterward →Figures last reviewed January 2026. Laws change, and this is general information, not legal advice. Confirm with the Iowa probate court in the county where your loved one lived, or a local estate attorney.