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Arkansas Probate Timeline Calculator

Arkansas isn't a Uniform Probate Code state, but its independent administration option can strip away most of the court oversight anyway — if the will authorizes it, or every heir agrees.

Based on Ark. Code § 28-47-101, 28-50-101 FigureMyTax Editorial Team Free · no sign-up

By the FigureMyTax Editorial Team · How we calculate

Your Arkansas probate

Pick the options that match your estate — the estimate updates instantly.

Estimated timeline in Arkansas
9–14 months
Independent administration, uncontested
Independent vs standard? →
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Arkansas's probate timeline, at a glance

MilestoneArkansas ruleSource
Small estate affidavit eligible$100,000 net, excluding homestead/allowances; 45 days after deathArk. Code § 28-41-101
Inventory filedWithin 60 days of appointmentArk. Code Title 28
Notice to creditors publishedOnce a week for 2 consecutive weeks§ 28-40-111
Creditor claim bar6 months from first publication§ 28-50-101
Known/ascertainable creditors barred regardless of notice2 years from first publication§ 28-50-101(h)
Absolute outer bar (no administration or notice)5 years from date of death§ 28-50-101(d)
Final distribution orderAt least 60 days after final account filed§ 28-53-104

Arkansas probate timeline — frequently asked questions

How long does probate take in Arkansas?

Independent administration typically closes in 9 to 14 months, driven by the 6-month creditor claim period from first publication and a 60-day minimum wait after the final account is filed.

How long do Arkansas creditors have to file a claim?

6 months from the date of first publication of the notice to creditors, under Ark. Code 28-50-101 — longer than neighboring Wisconsin (3 months) or Kansas and Iowa (4 months).

What is independent administration in Arkansas?

A streamlined process under Ark. Code 28-47-101 that substantially reduces court oversight when the will authorizes it or all heirs consent, letting the personal representative act with far less supervision than standard administration.

Does Arkansas have an estate or inheritance tax?

No. Arkansas has no state estate tax and no inheritance tax — only the federal estate tax can apply, and only to estates above the federal exemption.

Arkansas probate tools & guides

Arkansas Probate DeadlinesEvery statutory date, with citations What Delays Probate in ArkansasThe real causes, beyond the baseline Independent vs Standard AdministrationWhich one applies to your estate Arkansas Probate vs Living TrustWould a trust have avoided this?

This calculator provides an estimate for general guidance only and is not legal advice. Figures are based on Arkansas statute (Ark. Code § 28-41-101, 28-47-101, 28-50-101, 28-53-104). Actual timelines depend on the specific Circuit Court and whether the estate is contested. Confirm current timelines with the Circuit Court or a licensed Arkansas attorney before acting.