Texas probate can take 6 months to 2+ years. Get your Texas inheritance advance in as little as 48 hours — no loan, no credit check, no risk.
Texas has one of the more flexible probate systems in the country, but that flexibility does not necessarily mean speed. The process is handled through county-level courts, and the timeline depends heavily on the type of probate proceeding, the estate's complexity, and whether any disputes arise.
Texas offers several pathways for settling an estate, ranging from simplified small estate affidavits to full dependent administrations requiring court supervision of nearly every transaction. The information below is a general overview — Texas probate law is nuanced, and we encourage you to consult with a Texas probate attorney for guidance specific to your situation.
Filing the application (weeks 1-4). Texas requires that the will be filed with the county clerk within four years of the decedent's death. An application to probate the will is filed in the county where the deceased resided.
Validation hearing and appointment (weeks 2-6). A judge reviews the will's validity and appoints an executor. Independent administration — the most common type in Texas — gives the executor broad authority to manage the estate without ongoing court approval.
Creditor notification period (months 1-6+). The executor must publish a notice to creditors in a local newspaper. Creditors generally have several months to file claims. This mandatory waiting period is one of the main reasons Texas probate takes months even in straightforward cases.
Asset management and debt settlement (months 3-12+). The executor inventories assets, obtains appraisals, manages property, pays valid debts, and files tax returns.
Distribution (months 6-24+). Once debts and taxes are settled, the executor can distribute remaining assets. Simple estates with independent administration may wrap up in 6-9 months. Complex estates commonly take 12-24 months or longer.
Independent vs. dependent administration. Most Texas wills grant independent administration, which significantly streamlines the process. Without it, the court may require dependent administration with court approval for most actions.
Community property. Texas is a community property state, which can affect which assets are part of the probate estate.
Muniment of title. A simplified process allowing the will to be admitted without full administration when there are no unpaid unsecured debts.
Small estate affidavit. For qualifying smaller estates, Texas allows heirs to claim assets without full probate.
Whether your Texas estate is in independent or dependent administration, the waiting period can create real financial pressure. A Texas inheritance advance can provide funds in as little as 48 hours — with no credit check, no monthly payments, and no personal risk.
Get a free quote or call (800) 617-7260 to discuss your Texas estate.
Disclaimer: This page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or tax advice. Probate laws, timelines, and costs vary significantly by state and by individual circumstances. We strongly encourage you to consult with a qualified attorney or financial advisor for guidance specific to your situation. First Heritage Funding is not a law firm and does not provide legal services.
Simple estates with independent administration and liquid assets may close in 6-9 months. Estates involving real property, tax issues, or disputes commonly take 12-24 months or longer.
In some cases — through trusts, beneficiary designations, joint ownership, muniment of title, or small estate affidavits. Consult a Texas estate planning attorney for guidance.
The legal framework is consistent statewide, but processing times can vary by county. Larger counties like Harris, Dallas, and Bexar may have longer court calendars.
Yes. We work with Texas heirs across the state, regardless of county or administration type. Qualification is based on the estate, not your personal credit.
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