Tennessee
Estate law, probate process, and inheritance rules for Tennessee — in plain language.
$2,000–$4,000 typical
Affidavit collection T.C.A. §30-4-101
Elective share: graduated by length of marriage (10%–40%)
Spouse + descendants: spouse takes equal share with descendants, minimum 1/3.
- ✓Must be 18+ and of sound mind
- ✓May be required to post bond unless will waives it
- ✓Must file inventory of estate assets
- ✓Must give notice to creditors per statute
- ⏱Will filed promptly after death
- ⏱Notice to creditors: 4 months
- ⏱Inventory: 60 days after appointment
- ⚠TN repealed estate tax in 2016 (effective for deaths in 2016+)
- ⚠TN repealed inheritance tax in 2016
- ⚠Outdated beneficiary designations override the will
- ⚠Real estate in another state triggers ancillary probate
- ⚠Joint tenancy with non-spouse can create unintended consequences
- →No state tax — focus on probate avoidance
- →Trust planning for estates > $500K to skip TN probate process
- Tennessee Code Title 30-32 (Estates of Decedents)
Statute references are for orientation only. Verify current text with your state legislature's website. Not legal advice — consult an attorney licensed in Tennessee.
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