Settling an estate in New Jersey
In New Jersey, probate typically takes 9-18 months. Estates under $20,000 can usually use a simpler small-estate process. New Jersey has no state estate tax and has inheritance tax.
The key numbers
Reviewed January 2026- Typical probate timeline
- 9-18 months
- Small estate limit
- $20,000
- Small estate process
- Small estate affidavit for estates under $20K of personal property.
- Deadline to file the will / open probate
- No strict deadline
- State estate tax
- No
- Inheritance tax
- Yes
- Executor pay
- Statutory: 6% for income received, 6% of corpus. Court approval required for larger estates.
- Community property state
- No
- Homestead protection
- Limited homestead protections
NJ estate tax repealed in 2018. NJ still has inheritance tax: 0-16% based on relationship. Class A (spouse, children, parents) = exempt. Class C (siblings) = 11-16%. Class D (all others) = 15-16%.
Deadlines to know
- Inheritance tax return
- 8 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 New Jersey?
Probate in New Jersey typically takes 9-18 months. Simple estates move faster; disputes, real estate in other states, or a business can stretch it.
What is the small estate limit in New Jersey?
$20,000. Small estate affidavit for estates under $20K of personal property.
Does New Jersey have an estate or inheritance tax?
No. New Jersey has no state estate tax. It also has an inheritance tax, paid by some heirs. NJ estate tax repealed in 2018. NJ still has inheritance tax: 0-16% based on relationship. Class A (spouse, children, parents) = exempt. Class C (siblings) = 11-16%. Class D (all others) = 15-16%.
How much does an executor get paid in New Jersey?
Statutory: 6% for income received, 6% of corpus. Court approval required for larger estates.
Next steps
Read the full New Jersey estate settlement guide, or start with Executor 101.
Get a New Jersey checklist with Afterward →Figures last reviewed January 2026. Laws change, and this is general information, not legal advice. Confirm with the New Jersey probate court in the county where your loved one lived, or a local estate attorney.