Settling an estate in Arkansas
In Arkansas, probate typically takes 6-12 months. Estates under $100,000 can usually use a simpler small-estate process. Arkansas has no state estate tax and no inheritance tax.
The key numbers
Reviewed January 2026- Typical probate timeline
- 6-12 months
- Small estate limit
- $100,000
- Small estate process
- Small estate procedures for estates under $100K.
- Deadline to file the will / open probate
- No strict deadline
- State estate tax
- No
- Inheritance tax
- No
- Executor pay
- Statutory: 10% of first $1K, 5% of next $4K, 3% over $5K.
- Community property state
- No
- Homestead protection
- $2,500 homestead exemption (unlimited acreage in rural, 1/4 acre urban)
Deadlines to know
- Creditor claims period
- 6 months from first publication
- Final income tax
- April 15 of following year
Common questions
How long does probate take in Arkansas?
Probate in Arkansas typically takes 6-12 months. Simple estates move faster; disputes, real estate in other states, or a business can stretch it.
What is the small estate limit in Arkansas?
$100,000. Small estate procedures for estates under $100K.
Does Arkansas have an estate or inheritance tax?
No. Arkansas has no state estate tax. It has no inheritance tax.
How much does an executor get paid in Arkansas?
Statutory: 10% of first $1K, 5% of next $4K, 3% over $5K.
Next steps
Read the full Arkansas estate settlement guide, or start with Executor 101.
Get a Arkansas checklist with Afterward →Figures last reviewed January 2026. Laws change, and this is general information, not legal advice. Confirm with the Arkansas probate court in the county where your loved one lived, or a local estate attorney.