Small Estate Administration in California

Not every estate in California requires a formal, year-long probate process. If a loved one’s estate falls below specific financial thresholds, you may be able to utilize simplified procedures to transfer assets. These “Small Estate” tools are designed to save families time and money, often resolving an estate in a matter of weeks rather than years.

At the Law Offices of W. Steven Chou, we stay at the forefront of California’s evolving probate laws. For deaths occurring in 2026, the legal thresholds have increased significantly, offering more families in Orange and Los Angeles counties a path to avoid full court intervention. With over 25 years of experience, Attorney Steven Chou helps you determine exactly which simplified procedure fits your situation.

In California, the definition of a “small estate” depends on the type of asset and the date of death. For deaths occurring on or after April 1, 2025, the law provides several critical high-value categories:

When determining if an estate qualifies for these simplified procedures, you do not count every asset the decedent owned. Many high-value items are excluded by law, which often helps an estate qualify as “small” even if the total net worth seems higher:

To use these simplified tools, you must provide the court or financial institution with an accurate valuation of the assets. For real estate, this requires an appraisal by a California Probate Referee. Attorney W. Steven Chou works closely with local referees in Orange and Los Angeles counties to ensure your valuations are legally sound and submitted correctly.

As a bilingual attorney, Steven Chou provides these services in both English and Chinese, ensuring that every heir understands the process and their rights. We pride ourselves on transparent fees and clear communication, helping you navigate the “Small Estate” path without the confusion of traditional legalese.