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Vermont Probate Timeline Calculator

Vermont never adopted the Uniform Probate Code, requires no attorney for any route, and even flips who controls the executor's fee by default.

Based on 14 V.S.A. § 1065 FigureMyTax Editorial Team Free · no sign-up

By the FigureMyTax Editorial Team · How we calculate

Your Vermont probate

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

Estimated timeline in Vermont
6–12 months
Uncontested administration
The will-controls-fee rule →
Facing probate in Vermont?

A local probate attorney can review your estate — many offer a free consultation.

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Vermont's probate timeline, at a glance

MilestoneVermont ruleSource
Small estate procedure eligible$45,000 or less, personal property only14 V.S.A. § 1901
Creditor claim barGenerally 4 months to present claims14 V.S.A. Title 14
Probate Division filing fee$50–$3,250, fixed-dollar bands by estate value32 V.S.A. § 1434
Executor fee, default ruleWill's own compensation clause controls, unless renounced14 V.S.A. § 1065
Estate tax return (Form E-1), if applicableDue 9 months after death32 V.S.A. § 7442a

Vermont probate timeline — frequently asked questions

How long does probate take in Vermont?

Uncontested estates commonly take 6 to 12 months, driven partly by the 4-month creditor claim period.

Is an attorney required for Vermont probate?

No. Vermont requires no attorney for any probate route — small estate, waiver of administration, or full administration can all be self-filed with the Probate Division.

How long do Vermont creditors have to file a claim?

Generally 4 months to present claims against the estate.

Does Vermont have an estate or inheritance tax?

Vermont has no inheritance tax, but it has its own state estate tax on estates above a $5 million exemption, at a flat 16% of the excess.

Vermont probate tools & guides

Vermont Probate DeadlinesEvery statutory date, with citations What Delays Probate in VermontThe real causes, beyond the baseline Vermont's Will-Controls-Fee RuleWhy the default runs backwards here Vermont 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 Vermont statute (14 V.S.A. § 1065, 1901; 32 V.S.A. § 1434, 7442a). Actual timelines depend on the specific Probate Division and whether the estate is contested. Confirm current timelines with the Probate Division or a licensed Vermont attorney before acting.