Changes Coming April 1, 2025

If you’ve ever dealt with probate, you know how long, difficult, and overwhelming the process can be. But there’s great news!

Starting April 1, 2025, a new California law will streamline probate for primary residences valued under $750,000—allowing families to sell these homes without the hassle of probate.

So Grandma, hang in there until April 1, 2025! 😊

Key Changes to the Probate Law (AB 2016):

✅ Exclusion of Primary Residence: Homes valued up to $750,000 will no longer be subject to probate.

✅ Applies to Deaths on or After April 1, 2025.

✅ Higher Value Limit for Succession Petition: Estates can now use a “Petition to Determine Succession to Real Property” for homes up to $750,000—avoiding full probate.

✅ More Property Exempt from Probate: Combined assets up to $934,500 may now qualify for this streamlined process ($750,000 for the home + $184,500 in cash).

✅ Clearer Definition of “Primary Residence”: It’s the decedent’s main home, regardless of whether they lived there at the time of death.

✅ All Heirs Must Sign Court Documents.

✅ At Least 40 Days Must Pass After Death Before Filing.

✅ A Probate Referee Must Appraise the Home.

✅ Done Right, This Could Save Years in Probate Court!

Want to Avoid Probate Court Entirely?

While this new law helps, the best way to protect your assets and family is with a Living Trust. With a properly structured trust, your loved ones can bypass the probate court entirely—no delays, no court involvement, and no unnecessary legal fees.

We can help you set up a Living Trust and avoid the probate court altogether.