Summary administration in Florida is a streamlined and expedited probate process designed for small estates with limited assets or for estates that meet specific criteria outlined in Florida law. It is an alternative to the formal probate process, which can be more time-consuming and costly. Summary administration is typically faster and involves fewer court proceedings. In this article, we'll unpack the basic requirements for using the small estate summary probate process in the Sunshine State.
Who is Eligible for Summary Probate in Florida?
To be eligible for summary administration in Florida, the estate must meet one of the following criteria:
(i) The total value of the estate's assets subject to probate (excluding exempt property and assets with named beneficiaries) is $75,000 or less; or
(ii) The decedent passed away more than two years ago, regardless of the estate's value.
Please note that you do not need to satisfy both of these conditions. The summary administration process is available if the estate is worth $75,000 or less, OR the person who died passed away more than two years ago.
How Do You Initiate Summary Administration in Florida?
To initiate summary administration in Florida, a petitioner must file a "Petition for Summary Administration" with the probate court. The person who files the petition is usually a surviving spouse, adult child, family member, or another interested party. The petition should include information about the assets, liabilities, and beneficiaries of the estate. The petitioner will have to show that the estate meets the criteria for using the small estate process.
Giving Notice to Creditors in the Florida Summary Probate Process
The petitioner must publish a "Notice of Administration" in a local newspaper. This notice serves to inform any potential creditors that they have a limited time to file claims against the estate. The notice also alerts interested parties, including beneficiaries, that summary administration is being pursued.
No Formal Appointment of Personal Representative
Unlike the formal probate process in Florida, summary administration does not typically involve the appointment of a personal representative. (A personal representative is also known as an "executor" or "administrator." Instead, the court relies on the petitioner to distribute the assets to the beneficiaries.
How Are Assets Distributed in the Summary Probate Process?
After the notice period has passed, and if no valid creditor claims or objections to the summary administration have been filed, the court may issue an order allowing the distribution of the estate's assets to the beneficiaries as specified in the Will or according to Florida's intestate succession laws. A person who dies without a Will is said to have "died intestate."
How is the Estate Closed After Florida Summary Administration?
Once the assets have been distributed and all necessary tasks are completed, the petitioner can petition the court to close the estate. The court will issue an order closing the estate, and no further administration is required.
Do I Still Need a Will if I Have a Small Estate in Florida?
Summary administration is a useful option for smaller estates or estates that meet the specified criteria, as it can save time and reduce the administrative burdens associated with the formal probate process. However, it's important to note that summary administration may not be suitable for all estates, especially those with complex issues or disputes among beneficiaries. It is probably still better to have a Will, even if you have a small estate in Florida. It is still advisable to have a will, regardless of the size of your Will.
1. A will allows you to specify how you want your assets to be distributed after your passing. Even if your estate is small, you may have specific preferences about who should inherit your property, possessions, and other assets. Without a Will, your assets may be distributed according to Florida's intestate succession laws, which may not align with your wishes.
2. If you have minor children, a Will is essential for designating a guardian to care for them in the event of your and the other parent's death. Without a Will, the court will make this decision, and it may not align with your choice.
3. While Florida offers simplified probate options for smaller estates, having a Will can still help streamline the probate process. It clarifies your intentions and can make it easier for the court to distribute your assets efficiently.
4. In your Will, you can name an executor (also known as a personal representative in Florida) to manage your estate during the probate process. This individual will be responsible for handling various administrative tasks, including paying debts, filing taxes, and distributing assets. Having an appointed executor can help ensure your estate is handled according to your wishes.
5. A clear and well-drafted will can help prevent disputes among family members and beneficiaries. It leaves no ambiguity about your intentions, reducing the likelihood of legal challenges.
6. If you have a Will, you can designate a caregiver for your pets and allocate funds to their care. You can also make bequests to charities.
7. Even with a small estate, you may have unique circumstances or specific wishes that are not adequately addressed by the default rules of intestate succession. A Will allows you to customize your estate plan to address these matters. While Florida offers simplified probate procedures for smaller estates, having a Will can help ensure that your assets are distributed according to your preferences and can make the process more efficient. FastWill has many resources that can help you create a will that reflects your wishes and provides peace of mind for you and your loved ones.
