Settling an estate in Kentucky
In Kentucky, probate typically takes 6-12 months. Estates under $30,000 can usually use a simpler small-estate process. Kentucky has no state estate tax and has inheritance tax.
The key numbers
Reviewed January 2026- Typical probate timeline
- 6-12 months
- Small estate limit
- $30,000
- Small estate process
- Small estate procedures for personal property under $30K.
- Deadline to file the will / open probate
- No strict deadline
- State estate tax
- No
- Inheritance tax
- Yes
- Executor pay
- Statutory maximum: 5% of personal estate value.
- Community property state
- No
- Homestead protection
- $5,000 homestead exemption
KY has an inheritance tax: Class A (spouse, children, parents, siblings) = exempt. Class B (nieces, nephews, in-laws) = 4-16%. Class C (all others) = 6-16%.
Deadlines to know
- Inheritance tax return
- 18 months from death
- Creditor claims period
- 6 months from appointment
- Final income tax
- April 15 of following year
Common questions
How long does probate take in Kentucky?
Probate in Kentucky 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 Kentucky?
$30,000. Small estate procedures for personal property under $30K.
Does Kentucky have an estate or inheritance tax?
No. Kentucky has no state estate tax. It also has an inheritance tax, paid by some heirs. KY has an inheritance tax: Class A (spouse, children, parents, siblings) = exempt. Class B (nieces, nephews, in-laws) = 4-16%. Class C (all others) = 6-16%.
How much does an executor get paid in Kentucky?
Statutory maximum: 5% of personal estate value.
Next steps
Read the full Kentucky estate settlement guide, or start with Executor 101.
Get a Kentucky checklist with Afterward →Figures last reviewed January 2026. Laws change, and this is general information, not legal advice. Confirm with the Kentucky probate court in the county where your loved one lived, or a local estate attorney.