Settling an estate in Tennessee
In Tennessee, probate typically takes 6-12 months. Estates under $50,000 can usually use a simpler small-estate process. Tennessee has no state estate tax and no inheritance tax.
The key numbers
Reviewed January 2026- Typical probate timeline
- 6-12 months
- Small estate limit
- $50,000
- Small estate process
- Small estate affidavit for estates under $50K.
- Deadline to file the will / open probate
- No strict deadline
- State estate tax
- No
- Inheritance tax
- No
- Executor pay
- Reasonable compensation, typically 1-5%. Must be approved by court.
- Community property state
- No
- Homestead protection
- $5,000 homestead exemption (up to 160 acres)
Deadlines to know
- Creditor claims period
- 4 months from first publication
- Inventory filing
- 60 days after appointment
- Final income tax
- No state income tax
Common questions
How long does probate take in Tennessee?
Probate in Tennessee 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 Tennessee?
$50,000. Small estate affidavit for estates under $50K.
Does Tennessee have an estate or inheritance tax?
No. Tennessee has no state estate tax. It has no inheritance tax.
How much does an executor get paid in Tennessee?
Reasonable compensation, typically 1-5%. Must be approved by court.
Next steps
Read the full Tennessee estate settlement guide, or start with Executor 101.
Get a Tennessee checklist with Afterward →Figures last reviewed January 2026. Laws change, and this is general information, not legal advice. Confirm with the Tennessee probate court in the county where your loved one lived, or a local estate attorney.