Arizona Probate Timeline Calculator

Estimate how long probate will take in Arizona — based on which of the three tracks (informal, formal, supervised) applies, and the four-month creditor window under A.R.S. § 14-3801.

Based on A.R.S. § 14-3801, § 14-3933, § 14-3971 FigureMyTax Editorial Team Free · no sign-up

Your Arizona probate

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Estimated timeline in Arizona
6–12 months
Informal, cooperative heirs, no real estate sale
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Arizona's probate timeline, at a glance

MilestoneArizona ruleSource
Creditor notice publishedOnce/week for 3 successive weeksA.R.S. § 14-3801(A)
Unknown creditors' claim window4 months from first publication§ 14-3801(A)
Known creditors' claim windowLater of 4 months from publication or 60 days from mailed notice§ 14-3801(B)
Notice to heirs/deviseesWithin 30 days of appointment§ 14-3306
Inventory filedWithin 90 days of appointment§ 14-3706
Closing statementNo sooner than 4 months after appointment§ 14-3933

Arizona probate timeline — frequently asked questions

How long does probate take in Arizona?

An uncontested informal probate typically takes 6 to 12 months. The floor is set by A.R.S. § 14-3801's four-month creditor claim window, and § 14-3933 bars filing the closing statement sooner than four months after the personal representative is appointed.

What are Arizona's three probate tracks?

Informal (the default, reviewed by a registrar without a judge, used for undisputed estates), formal (judge-presided, used when something is contested or unclear), and supervised (rare, where the court actively oversees distributions). Most Arizona estates use the informal track.

How long do Arizona creditors have to file a claim?

Unknown creditors get four months from the date of first publication. Known creditors get whichever is later: four months from publication, or 60 days from when they were mailed direct written notice, under A.R.S. § 14-3801.

Can an Arizona estate skip probate entirely?

Small estates can, using affidavits under A.R.S. § 14-3971 — since HB 2116 (2025), personal property up to $200,000 or real property up to $300,000 (available 6 months after death). These bypass the court process and its timeline entirely.

This calculator provides an estimate for general guidance only and is not legal advice. Figures are based on Arizona statute (A.R.S. § 14-3801, § 14-3306, § 14-3706, § 14-3933, § 14-3971). Actual timelines depend on the specific Superior Court's calendar, whether the estate is contested, and how quickly the personal representative files. Confirm current timelines with the county Superior Court or a licensed Arizona attorney before acting.