Settling an estate in Pennsylvania
In Pennsylvania, probate typically takes 9-18 months. Estates under $50,000 can usually use a simpler small-estate process. Pennsylvania has no state estate tax and has inheritance tax.
The key numbers
Reviewed January 2026- Typical probate timeline
- 9-18 months
- Small estate limit
- $50,000
- Small estate process
- Petition for simplified procedure for small estates.
- Deadline to file the will / open probate
- No strict deadline but prompt filing recommended
- State estate tax
- No
- Inheritance tax
- Yes
- Executor pay
- Reasonable compensation, typically 3-5%. No statutory schedule.
- Community property state
- No
- Homestead protection
- Limited homestead protections compared to other states
PA has an inheritance tax: 0% for surviving spouse, 4.5% for direct descendants, 12% for siblings, 15% for others.
Deadlines to know
- Inheritance tax return
- 9 months from death (5% discount if paid within 3 months)
- Creditor claims
- 1 year from death
- Final income tax
- April 15 of following year
Common questions
How long does probate take in Pennsylvania?
Probate in Pennsylvania typically takes 9-18 months. Simple estates move faster; disputes, real estate in other states, or a business can stretch it.
What is the small estate limit in Pennsylvania?
$50,000. Petition for simplified procedure for small estates.
Does Pennsylvania have an estate or inheritance tax?
No. Pennsylvania has no state estate tax. It also has an inheritance tax, paid by some heirs. PA has an inheritance tax: 0% for surviving spouse, 4.5% for direct descendants, 12% for siblings, 15% for others.
How much does an executor get paid in Pennsylvania?
Reasonable compensation, typically 3-5%. No statutory schedule.
Next steps
Read the full Pennsylvania estate settlement guide, or start with Executor 101.
Get a Pennsylvania checklist with Afterward →Figures last reviewed January 2026. Laws change, and this is general information, not legal advice. Confirm with the Pennsylvania probate court in the county where your loved one lived, or a local estate attorney.