Settling an estate in Oregon
In Oregon, probate typically takes 6-18 months. Estates under $75,000 personal / $200,000 real property can usually use a simpler small-estate process. Oregon has state estate tax and no inheritance tax.
The key numbers
Reviewed January 2026- Typical probate timeline
- 6-18 months
- Small estate limit
- $75,000 personal / $200,000 real property
- Small estate process
- Small estate affidavit. Personal property ≤$75K, real property ≤$200K. Wait 30 days.
- Deadline to file the will / open probate
- No strict deadline
- State estate tax
- Yes, over $1 million (lowest in US)
- Inheritance tax
- No
- Executor pay
- Reasonable compensation, typically 2-4% of estate value.
- Community property state
- No
- Homestead protection
- $40,000 homestead exemption (160 acres rural, 1 block urban)
Oregon has the LOWEST estate tax threshold in the nation at $1M. Rates: 10-16% graduated. Estate planning is critical.
Deadlines to know
- Small estate affidavit
- 30 days after death
- Estate tax return
- 9 months from death
- Creditor claims period
- 4 months from first publication
Common questions
How long does probate take in Oregon?
Probate in Oregon 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 Oregon?
$75,000 personal / $200,000 real property. Small estate affidavit. Personal property ≤$75K, real property ≤$200K. Wait 30 days.
Does Oregon have an estate or inheritance tax?
Yes. Oregon has a state estate tax on estates over $1 million (lowest in US). It has no inheritance tax. Oregon has the LOWEST estate tax threshold in the nation at $1M. Rates: 10-16% graduated. Estate planning is critical.
How much does an executor get paid in Oregon?
Reasonable compensation, typically 2-4% of estate value.
Next steps
Read the full Oregon estate settlement guide, or start with Executor 101.
Get a Oregon checklist with Afterward →Figures last reviewed January 2026. Laws change, and this is general information, not legal advice. Confirm with the Oregon probate court in the county where your loved one lived, or a local estate attorney.