District of Columbia: small estate limits
The most an estate can be worth and still skip full probate, how long heirs must wait after the death, and whether real estate qualifies.
Checked on official source| Small estate limit | $40,000 by affidavit; $80,000 by court small-estate process |
|---|---|
| How it works | Affidavit or court petition |
| Waiting period after death | 60 days (affidavit) |
| Covers real estate? | Court process only |
| Law | D.C. Code §§ 20-361, 20-351 |
The $80,000 court limit took effect Mar. 21, 2025 (D.C. Law 25-302).
General information only, not legal, insurance or financial advice. Not affiliated with any government agency. Exceptions can apply. Confirm with the state agency, the court or a licensed professional in District of Columbia.
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How we checked this
Limits come from a 50-state table that cites each statute (rows checked October 7, 2026). Eleven states with recent changes were confirmed on legislature, court or state agency sites; that check corrected Louisiana to $200,000. Last checked: November 12, 2026. Laws change; confirm with the state agency or a licensed professional before acting.
Cross-checked sources agree Checked on official source confirmed on a government, court or legislature site From a statute-cited table one detailed source Under review sources disagree; read the note and the law.